ROSE AND DAVID

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ROSE AND DAVID

CHAPTER ONE

About 6.30 on a sunny autumn evening, David Kalya moved around the mouse of his lap top computer aimlessly, browsing the internet, searching for something worthwhile and interesting to give a nice ending to his day in the office. The man in his late thirties had a body- builder physique, a confident countenance imprinted on his dark African face and an average height. After a couple of minutes the dark-suited man with a matching tie and clear spectacles perhaps having achieved whatever he wished to, shut down the system. As he continued sitting there, wild thoughts and weird imaginations began to race through his mind. Painful, sorrowful memories of his past right from his childhood days smote him hard. He tried to console himself with the review of his small, few and far- between victories he had managed to claim on his long, bumpy ride to his present destination. He then recalled the day when his wife whom he dearly loved shared with him her last moments before her life ebbed away. This hurt his already wounded soul. He just could not come to terms with his status as a widower. Just before these powerful thoughts could crush his feelings, Judas Kimuma alias Bellringer sauntered into the office casually and they shook hands. David?s friend was, as the nickname suggests an employee of Nasa Stock Exchange whose work was to ring the bell during ceremonies of selling shares or when marking the listing of a company?s bond on the trading floor. He was a crafty, eccentric young man whose presence anywhere at any time could be felt heavily. He was David?s cousin; a fact that he was fond of and could be visibly flattered on being enquired about his identity. The reason for this was explicit: David Kalya was the President and Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces of the land of Sheba, a great African state. The president was overly excited when Judas Kimuma joined him so as to keep him company as he went out for the evening. He always found great company and comfort in the young man. Suffice it to say that they shared confidences together and the most important matters of the state were hatched and implemented on Kimuma?s consultation and advice. They worked on ?I-scratch-your-back-and-you-scratch-mine? principle, a practice common to all Africans. And it worked well. The masses enjoyed good governance where peace, love and unity abounded.

In the presence of this young man, the president began to visualize a possible breakthrough in his dream. A dream which heavily burdened his mind, heart and soul day and night. He felt embarrassed that he was yet to act on it and yet he was beginning the second year since being elected president. He was apprehensive of one Rose Akinyi, a beautiful young lady who was a hailed leader of the official opposition party in parliament. If indeed he would launch his project by introducing the motion bearing the weight of his dream for debate on the floor of the House would it make any sense to the omniscient, critical opposition lady? He often visualized himself being booed by the MPs, led by Rose, the people?s heroine. And he would stand there sheepishly, a script in hand, bearing words of empty rhetoric if he ever attempted to give it a shot. This pushed him further into a groove of despondency. It was not, however, that Rose was a bad woman finding fault with everything but that he was entranced by this tall, smiling woman passing for a good wife. But he was shy of declaring his feelings. Mixed feelings of fear and adoration, that was all. Nonetheless, the more he attempted taking a step in that direction the more he hurt himself. Time was running out and no progress at all. He got guilty of entertaining those thoughts when he was jerked to life by Bellringer?s ranting in poor English. ?I told myself go and accompany cousin out tonight. I realize it?s hard job being president of Sheba, talking to people all day and nobody to stay with in quietness. I urged me to go compensate you for helping me achieve boyhood goal of taking charge of nation?s economy. I learnt in primary school in my Geography, History and Civics class that country?s economy is most vital than anything else. You held my hand and pulled me from nowhere and landed me a great job!? President David Kalya smiled understandingly and nodded to him. Still, images of his big vision in life and Rose?s beauty raced through his mind. Although paying attention to Bellringer, half of his mind was engulfed by those images. He wondered how that would come to pass. He knew that on the outward appearance, he displayed the posture of a confident, competent administrator but deep down, he nursed wounds resulting from his weakness. ?Let?s leave the palace right now and please remind me later at the hotel to tell you something about Rose and my ambition,? the president said. ?I?ll do.? Bellringer replied. The two got into a Mercedes followed by the driver and the president?s bodyguard. The car sped in the direction of a hotel.

* * * *

It was a warm dusk in Nasa, capital of Sheba. Rose Akinyi was reclining on a sofa in her house in the company of her siblings and a few friends. In this atmosphere she very well assumed the role of a matriarch. Their parents having died many years back, and she being their eldest child, was left with the responsibility of taking care of her siblings. By this time the two brothers and two sisters of hers were now grown ups pursuing their college studies in Nasa city. They had just moved house and dwelt in this new palatial house she purchased upon earning a good salary as a legislator.

It was one of those fast-paced days when she enjoyed peace and comfort in the house after those hectic moments of work during the day. After all, it was her home and she had every right to relax and feel good to be with her siblings and a few close friends. Life was good. Nevertheless, this awareness of being single was something of a worry to her. She made up her mind since the demise of her parents that she would remain single for the rest of her life. This was in keeping with her relatives? word that she takes up the responsibility that fell on her to oversee the affairs of her younger siblings. Another thing which bolstered her resolve had to do with her own perception. She once attended a lecture on engagement and marriage at her church when they were still living upcountry. In those days she had had a strong desire to be engaged to a handsome young man whom she would marry. It was a feeling she brought home after finishing high school probably having acquired it from her peers. During one lecture session the marriage counselor said: ??we may illustrate marriage as something taking the shape of a tent. Wedlock is one pole; the physical union of sexual relation is the second and love is the third. For a tent to provide a good shelter, all the three aspects of wedlock, sex and love must be present. That marriage is safe, happy and firm.? Later after the session while Rose was serving the counselor at lunch time in his office, a young lady who was touched by the lesson especially the illustration of a tent came to talk with him. She was troubled by her own marriage. She was candid enough to confess that she was not yet legally married to the man with whom she was cohabiting. She revealed that she had eloped with her suitor when she had mistaken lust for love. Down the line she became pregnant and delivered a child. Her parents forsook her for the foolish thing she committed. Her husband refused to legalize their marriage and began to batter her. She had nowhere to go. She began to sob uncontrollably as she compared her own married life to a tent with one pole missing ? that of a legal act of wedlock.

She added that her tent was raining in and the child too suffered a great deal. The counselor did his best to console and advise her. From that experience Rose began to view marriage as a bed of thorns, not that of roses. However the two factors that undergirded her determination to remain single were wobbling and getting feeble with time. Right now in fact she was considering rescinding the decision. Perhaps a little optimism and the favor of God would grant a happy marriage. After all, her siblings were now mature enough to fend for themselves, she reasoned. To say that she never eyed a potential husband was a fallacy. For it was true that she had greatly admired David Kalya long before he became president. She highly regarded this man?s demeanor and character. Nonetheless, she had reservations about her potential spouse. Who would like a widower with a boy-child for a husband? Who would delight in a husband facing charges of war crimes committed in the past? Even if those charges had been put on hold currently what if the case was reopened in the near future? Those were thoughts that weighed heavily on her mind as she sat quietly warming herself by the electric heater in the sitting room.

CHAPTER TWO

Her sisters were busy preparing supper in the kitchen while one of her brothers was watching television soap as the other one revised for his college exams imminent in his room. Her two friends, a lady and a man, were busy getting acquainted with a few odds and ends inside the guest room as they prepared for the night. A moment later, the male friend returned and sat beside her to warm himself. His name was Kogi. ?How was your day?? Rose enquired, smiling.

?It was fine, except for a few ups and downs here and there. That?s life. Somebody once stated: ?things turn out the best for those who make the best of the way things turned out.? He replied. ?It?s true. It may also be the same personage who said little things make the difference in every facet of life, so to get the most out of life add the little extra that makes the difference between winning and losing.?

The two went on to discuss current affairs in Sheba, analyzing every phenomenon whether good or bad point by point. As they did so, they were both in their element. The type of people who could be termed as having political blood.

It occurred that there was an agreement called the Regional Charter that had just been ratified among Sheba and five other neighboring states. There had been a mighty push by many quarters to achieve that pact so much so that when it finally materialized it was regarded as the chief milestone for the region. Directly it was put into effect, ushering in a new dispensation. Among the provisions of the charter comprised: Amnesty to political prisoners, and flexible economic stimulus regulations for member states. ?Change is like the rest. We are now living in a new era. The Information Age. Nobody should ever dupe you out there in the village by claiming to be a great leader somewhere and leave you misinformed. Things have never been better. As time goes the society matures both in intellect and technology. The keyword here is progress. But then again progress must go hand in hand with liberty,? Rose philosophized.

?I strongly feel that the more things change the more they remain the same,? replied Kogi. ?Do you still remember the day we received the Constitution??

?Yes, we were jubilant,? said Rose.

?Yes the moment we held it in our hands we were overly elated,? sad Kogi. ?However that happiness lasted a day. True happiness should be sustainable. It was better when we looked forward to something. Those days when we endured pain because of our expectations. Yet when the wind came it took away our grain and left us with only chaff!?

* * * *

Parliament was opening its Tuesday afternoon session. President David Kalya glanced at his watch which read 2:40. Being ten minutes late as usual on arriving at the parliament precincts lawmakers were already seated inside in anticipation of him and the speaker. This day the president entered parliament, marching elegantly to be accorded a standing ovation by the parliamentarians. Deep down he was anxious. With trepidation, he avoided glancing at the opposition side lest he noticed how Rose was responding to his entry. He recalled that of late the opposition leader rose to her feet lazily, actually becoming the last one to stand. This was under the pretext that she was engrossed in her files; flipping through them in readiness for the beginning of the session. This had occurred on several occasions in the recent past, upsetting his feelings.

He proceeded to his seat behind the speaker and sat, took out a handkerchief from his coat pocket and wiped his glistening face. Having regained strength and composure that had hitherto been sapped from his person by anxiety, he scanned the opposition side and saw her sitting on the front row. He wondered whether she had regarded his triumphant march directly past her in the past two minutes. Still focusing on her, he envied her calm, confident composure. She looked unruffled by circumstances all the time. She was busy flipping through her files as she conversed with a certain fellow called Mr. Tom Tum, a new legislator. They seemed to be discussing something quite interesting as they kept laughing heartily all the while. David Kalya felt unpopular in spite of himself since, he realized, he could not associate with some underling like Tom Tum. Yet Rose Akinyi, a sophisticated intellectual as she was, could amicably interact with all persons regardless of their status.

Immediately after the speaker?s arrival the session began in earnest. Firstly, orders from the chair. Secondly, questions, thirdly ministerial statements, then debate. His Excellency thought at this juncture about his burning ambition. Will it sail through considering the present atmosphere? He noticed the sad dejected looks on his ministers? faces, their hearts having been bruised by some tough questioning MPs. He felt sorry for them. Incidentally, the government was going on a loose tangent lately. There was a public outcry. Damaging reports arose from various parts of the nation as citizens decried and bemoaned generally declining standards occasioned by bad governance. An avalanche of worries bombarded the government side, that is the Executive, not least His Excellency. He kept wondering why at no time since he captured his place in the House on the Hill a good, noble report was ever brought to his ears. Ills, confusions, chaos galore. He called to mind a character on a certain novel where the character was talking to his friends saying ?If anyone wan make you minister make you run fast like flames commot!? Sadly in his case, he thought, he would dissuade his son by saying, ?If anyone wan make you president, make you shoot yourself in flames!?

At one point during the session David Kalya tried to seek assistance of the government chief whip to introduce the motion carrying the weight of his dream on his behalf. Just at that moment when he was on the verger of delegating the great task to his servant, it dawned on him that he had committed a fatal error which would have been starkly suicidal. He had not consulted his deputy on the matter. The deputy could have read conspiracy in the whole scheme and accused the president of high-handedness, worse even, opposed the motion by any means necessary. That was the gravity of the matter. He did not wholly put his confidence in his deputy. Though keeping faith with tenets of competitive democracy which he advocated for, His Excellency kept his vice at an arms length on matters bordering on his personal convictions especially this one now. He was at a political crossroads; his destiny hinged on the steps parliament led by Rose and the vice- president took. As he sat there, looming larger than life figures savagely in the recesses of his mind, his worries seemed to intensify by the minute. He saw Rose in front of him, either in realty or in mirage. His feelings about her now were impelling him to embrace her if only to comfort him. She appeared tranquil like an innocent baby girl. Her hair was tied up in an elegant knot on the top of her head in the form of a star. Towards the end of the session, the atmosphere was breathing gently, the air charged with warmth and peace. This gave him memories of his late wife sleeping peacefully in arms. He missed her deeply. If only Rose, by some miraculous conviction, be stirred to love him and marry him, he wished.

The session came to an end with David Kalya walking out a dejected mortal. The awareness of his standing in society notwithstanding, he was grieving inside, his object of desire seemed elusive, every struggle was being harshly refuted and even horribly smitten by ominous powers marring his path to Destiny. This situation would be repeated ad infinitum.

CHAPTER THREE

President David Kalya had received an urgent call and flown out of the country for a day or two. On the day that he left his home on weekend, Bishop Gamaliel had just paid him a courtesy call or an informal visit at home. He was a revered personality internationally. He had won multiple awards in acknowledgment and honor to him for his unrelenting struggle to promote peace, fairness and justice in the society. He had mediated in various disputes of national and international concerns in several countries on the continent of Africa, successfully bringing about peace and reconciliation to the rival parties. He was a dignitary called conscience keeper.

On this day, the president had entrusted Judas Kimuma with sole responsibility of keeping company the guest at home. A responsibility which Bellringer took up with a spontaneous alacrity. Wearing a T- shirt sagging at the neck and a pair of shorts, Bellringer entered the sitting room carrying a rolled newspaper in his left hand. He shook hands with the guest.

?Hello Sir?? How?s abroad? You exchanged each and another? He went abroad and you came from abroad. Ridiculous. You are highly welcome.? He said a greeting to Bishop Gamaliel as he threw his weight on the couch.

?Fine, thank you. I traveled safely. When I arrived I found that Nasa city is a really cool place to be this morning. It?s teeming with life and bustling with activity,? replied Bishop Gamaliel.

?Don?t be deceived. On the outward looking of things, citizens pass for angels of light to strange men like you. Stay in Sheba for a week and you discover for oneself they are terrible devils.

Never deceive you again. You?d better be caring or else be carried away by their false beauties.? Bellringer charged

?That's really sad. The people should be contended with whatever they have however little it might be. At least they should appreciate that they are fortunate enough to have a good government which epitomizes peace and tranquility. Other nations are deep in turmoil with no end in sight to their plight. My friend you?re better off in Sheba! Men fight for food, space and justice.?

?Stupid people of Sheba! Let me whisper you one secret, Bishop. His Excellency, a very good noble cousin of mine is planning great plans that will shake not Sheba alone but also international world. He plans to introduce a motion in parliament. The motion will be about??.? Judas was cut short when his phone rang. It appeared to be a special message to him as he checked the number of the caller and dashed out to receive it, a smirk smile on his face.

* * * *

Rose and Kogi had met at Dates World Hotel, a major rendezvous for most people of high profile, for a cup of tea that Saturday afternoon. They were special and platonic friends who treasured one another?s company. They were discussing their hobbies there at the table. Kogi enjoyed, he said, painting and traveling in his leisure time. He related how he traveled to Germany lately; his intrigues, episodes and experiences. ?Rose, do you remember the Berlin wall?? asked Kogi.

?Yes?.err?.the fall of the Berlin wall? Rose recalled.

?Yes, I was privileged enough to step my foot at that site bearing the memories of the collapse of Communism in Eastern Europe.?Kogi explained. ?On that day thousands were celebrating twenty years sine the epic moment of November 9, 1989. Numerous, colorfully decorated dominoes numbering up to a thousand which were piled along a 1.6 km route were toppled to symbolize both the moment the wall came crushing down and the consequential fall of Communism in Eastern Europe. The memorial services, speeches and events of that day had attracted leaders from around the world. It was captivating watching former Soviet and German leaders walking shoulder to shoulder as they crossed a former fortified border crossing point between East and West Berlin to tumultuous cheers. ?It?s still a miracle and a puzzle to this day,? one of the leaders of twenty seven European Union countries stated. I interviewed one German man aged seventy five by the name Peter Sauff who reminisced about life in the barrier?s shadow. ?It was like a prison. I lived on the western side of the wall. Those were really dark days. We should never forget that day, nor the sacrifices that made it possible. It was the happiest moment of my life. We remember the people of Baltic, who joined forces across their land?, we remember the students of Prague who propelled a dissident playwright from jail to the presidency. Freedom is not a given, it must be earned.? Peter Sauff told me, tears welling up his eyes.?

That surely was an epic moment for you, Kogi!? Rose beamed with awe; completely carried away by the story.

* * * *

A public holiday celebration for the entire nationhood of the people of Sheba had just come to a grinding halt. The country was commemorating their hard- won Independence Day.

The function had been attended by locals and foreigners including high profile personalities hailing from a former colonial power country (currently allies and great donors).

It had almost become a rule over the years that the celebration at Nasa National Stadium would not be just be rounded up with the presidential speech; but miscellaneous activities entailing singing, feasting and dancing would carry on for the rest of the day, so was the case this day.

As other people, perhaps having other commitments to accomplish after the main event, rolled out of the stadium in columns, His Excellency and other senior officers in government remained for entertainment. The enigmatic opposition leader too was still lagging behind. She sat with her fellow legislators who were engaged in chit-chat to pass time. Occasionally, silence would creep into the tent as they momentarily diverted attention to people doing dances. Disorganized, uncoordinated groups of people or individuals had sprung up sporadically to engage in frantic, frenzied singing and dancing spree. President David Kalya also took to the stage to play his part. Rose watched quietly. He seemed to be on a warm-up exercise, or trying to search the best dance suitable for him. Then finally he got it and started off.

He broke gradually into some animated movements without co-ordination; without regard for the traditional sense of rhythm. At this point, Rose stared at him, almost swaying unconsciously in tandem with his sideways body movements. She was very much captivated mentally by his gait and style; as he gently gyrated his muscles amid a dozen fellow dancers, leaving her clamoring for more. As if to express their feelings, the dancers would wriggle and writhe in what looked more or less like pain or ecstasy from time to time. Rose was enthralled probably more than anyone else in the tent! Sadly though, nobody could understand her. She was so absorbed into David that she almost forgot that she was a in the company of her colleagues.

Punctuating the highly spirited performance were nerve ? racking screams with some steps that did not seem to fit into the twisting and rolling movements. ?This is pot- contemporary African dance craze.? one MP remarked. ?It is an evolution from traditional African dance. They have just introduced into it some new ingredients, making it such a sophisticated dance.?

?I beg to differ with you calling it ?post contemporary African dance craze,? ?? Rose objected, tongue-in-cheek, anyway. She folded her arms across her bust and continued. ?The French facilitated almost four decades ago and a blended theirs with West African authentic dance. Ordinarily audience cannot understand this type of dance. Let?s leave it to intellectuals and foreigners!?

In her time of silence as she was spellbound by the artistry of His Excellency, she felt glad that Judas Kimuma was nowhere around him. She recalled how she was lately having to feed up with Bellringer for a reason God knew why. He just disgusted her, yet she could not comprehend or explain it. In the young man?s presence around her, or noticing him near the president made her feel like vomiting out something of a squalor. Therefore, she was at present at peace with David and herself.

CHAPTER FOUR

The great controversy! A half a year appraisal-cum-bounding session for senior government officials from the executive, the parliament and the judiciary was held for a whole day inside Nasa Conference Center. This meeting was convened and chaired by the President David Kalya. It was a momentous day whereby the leaders had the opportunity to evaluate the past progress visa-a vis the present position and strategize on what lay ahead of them. Every officer had the liberty and mandate to raise his or her issues, point out flaws and criticize constructively where necessary and give credit where it was due. Since the outset of this forum early in the morning, so far so good.

The first session had come to a close and with that, they took lunch at midday. Then they resumed the afternoon session. It was at this moment that the president began to experience jitters; a kind of a premonition of a difficult time ahead of him. Hence as he composed himself on his cushioned chair to open the session, he faltered and stammered a little in his five-minute speech. The theme they were set to deliberate on was: ?The Rule of Law, Democracy and Justice.? By virtue of its connotation, this theme caused a big stir in the House as soon as the president opened room for views, criticisms and recommendations, since it was the pillars on which the entire nation and humanity stood.

The attorney general proclaimed thus, ?A characteristic of the rule of law and justice is that no man, save for the president, and is above the law.? There was a trace of hushed murmur in the hall ensuing the AG?s remark, who was the government?s chief legal advisor. The AG seemed to have been impressed by his own comment or reaction of others as he kept laughing by himself.

?What?s the principle of equality for all?? MP Tom Tum asked the AG.

?You know, ladies and gentlemen, that the judiciary interprets the laws made by parliament. Who then implements the laws? Definitely it?s the executive. And the head of the executive is the president!? the AG replied, punching the table with a fist.

?What is lost in this analysis is the more fundamental implication of your assertion, Mr. AG as regards your position in this scheme of things.? Rose Akinyi the opposition leader prodded him.

President David Kayla?s heart was at this moment throbbing mercilessly. Suggestions for devolution of powers crossed his mind. He could only manage to shout feebly, ?Order! Order in the house, please!? he signaled to the AG to answer the question.

?Ladies and gentlemen, to answer Rose?s question, I would say I am subject to the law, though I may be an indispensable instrument of the law to the land of Sheba and to the government.? The AG answered looking beaten.

?You know,? it was Rose again, ?Mr. AG, we are bound to enquire about the source of authority in proclaiming the president to be above the law. You are member of the executive at the same level as a minister. You are an ex-officio member of parliament, and not only that, you sit in the Judicial Operation Committee that determines who becomes a judge in Sheba. You also sit on many independent commissions set up with varying mandates including the one reviewing the constitution. In one fell swoop, Mr. AG, I am sorry; you?ve arrogated to yourself the roles of the three arms of the government. In light of your opening statement, and having analyzed your performance in the past half-year, it is difficult not to conclude that your words had nothing to do with the person or office of the president.?

?Not only that,? Tom Tum was saying, ?the AG enjoys a security of tenure and cannot be removed except through recommendation of a tribunal and the occurrence of the president. It is next to impossible to prosecute him for any of his unlawful acts, whether as private individual or as the AG since he wields the all- powerful weapon known in legalese as ?nolle prosequi?. Sadly, he has actually used this weapon in the past for his own protection and the protection of others in the wrong. It is therefore my considered opinion that the entire struggle for democratization of the nation and government has been gravely misguided and focused on the wrong objectives and individuals.?

?It?s my conviction that if we seek true reforms in the political and judicial architecture of the state, we should not look further than the National Law Office. We should specifically trim the outlandish, excessive powers wielded by the AG.? Rose delivered her verdict. ?It?s disillusioning against any concept of ?democracy? for an individual to wield so much power with no checks and balances on the function of the office. By so doing we would be on the path to ridding Sheba of the object which is the embodiment of the phenomenon of impunity.?

There was dead silence in the hall at this juncture as each person pondered in the heart the magnitude and effect of the accusations leveled at the AG. The AG now looked forlorn and withdrawn, far from his usual ready -chuckle demeanor. As if his heart would suddenly disintegrate into pieces, the president awaited with deeply suppressed apprehension any utterance Rose would make against his person now that the AG was already dealt with appropriately. Matters were not made any better seeing as he had fallen for her secretly; any snide remark by her about him would aggravate his feelings by and by; his suspicions that the secret he gave Bellringer about his still- born ambitions might have been leaked to everybody made him a bundle of nerves.

It transpired during that session that there had been so many flaws in that administration: Talk of abdicated responsibility in the war against corruption, an indomitable monster; failure to regulate the nation?s food reserves occasioning a ravaging famine; growing insecurity both within and without the borders, and rampant unemployment among the youth. The challenges of governance!

Thus accusations and counteraccusations continued to mar the better part of the afternoon session. Pride and prejudice. Almost every senior leader from every arm of the government received a fair share of the blame. At the close of the session, President Kalya remarked that he was optimistic that every officer had gleaned a lesson for the good of the nation. This was the directive he gave in closing: ?The fight against corruption must neither be personalized nor politicized.?

No sooner had David walked out of the hall than Rose approached him. He could not know how to feel or react. ?Your Excellency,? Rose Akinyi said, shaking his hand firmly. ?I need not enlarge upon personal differences we have on several matters. They are a tempting subject.? The president was relieved of his apprehensions in an unexpected way. He had hitherto predicted that his difficulties were at last coming to a crisis.

?Far from it? he returned.

?Far from it,? assented Rose. ?I do not in any way thinkable wish to rekindle memories of our past differences. It is not apt that either of us should make the other one the subject of aspersion and pillories. I may have opinion of you, Your Excellency; you may have your opinion of me. But it?s unfitting that these discording opinions must come into disunity. They should instead head into a single harmonious point of confluence.?

?Honorable Madame,? His Excellency replied at length, ?I think you somehow attacked me personally besides my capacity. But this is not the time to settle scores or to apportion blame. But I quite concur with you on what you?ve stipulated.?

Rose bowed her head in honor to him then, shaking his hand again in that reassuring firm grip of hers, she walked away triumphantly, holding her files tightly close to her side.

All the president remembered the rest of the evening was a replay of the events, moods and moments of that doomsday, not least his brief meeting with the empress of his heart at the end of the forum. He called to mind as he lay in bed how some of his political adversaries had, whether they won or not, tried to disparage him to her. He wrestled with his intentions to ask her out for a date in the recent past. There he could let her in on his dream. But he was glad he did not. That was still premature, he told himself.

CHAPTER FIVE

Sometimes when Rose was taking a rest at home over the weekends, she would be in such high spirits that she could ask her brothers, or sisters or friends present for little games. They used to play on her beautiful lawn.

One such day in the afternoon she assembled them for volleyball. She was in a pink flowing dress that brought out her feminine figure: she had an average bust, a slim waist and all that balanced by gently undulating hips. Her female friends fancied her physique. This made her to be envied by those girls struggling with excruciating body fitness programs. The lawn was ?perfectly lovely? in the afternoon sunshine as one lady complimented it to Rose. It was spacious with trees and perspective walks that one could just distinguish at night without moonlight.

They had been playing there for nearly an hour when they took a rest under the trees. A teenage girl of nineteen, who had just arrived home, being a friend of one of Rose?s sisters, approached her. ?Hi, madam. I am your youngest sister?s friend, my name is Diana Njeri? she said, shaking Rose?s hand. She then proceeded to sit beside her on the soft, green grass.

??Hi, it?s a pleasure to see you. We?ve been playing. It was such an enjoyable game.? Rose answered happily. She saw a lot of potential in this slim, blonde with dimpled cheeks. Diana, in the next three or so minutes into the conversation, discovered her new companion?s impressive personality: Rose?s totally disarming friendliness combined with a gentle sense of humor that bubbled constantly below the surface delighted her. She loved the great leader to distraction! Diana had for long admired her out there, but she could only see her on television or newspapers. Rose was her star and role model. On this particular day they struck a special friendship. ?I?ve never met a special, down-to- earth person as you madam? Diana complimented her.

??Thanks. Diana just call me Rose. Don?t bother?. Rose said with a sweet smile that encouraged Diana, ?I am so fortunate to have met you in person today to the extent that we?ve shared light moments. I?m in raptures. You are very loving, so does your youngest sister, Lavender, whom I?ve intimated to you is my friend. God bless you in your endeavors to take this nation to great heights. You?ve mastered the ropes of national leadership so well. You stand for integrity. You are a wonderful role model to many of us.? Diana giggled .Rose had just been nodding to every sentence, she was so moved by this girl?s appreciation of her personality and achievements that she was lost for words. There was momentary relaxed silence. Both ladies were in tender state and too full of emotions to speak. For her it was a moment of reckoning her little progress in life and so many failings: for Diana it was a moment of exhilaration having met her star!

The next minute the two ladies now appearing like old friends rose to their feet and taking each other in arms, they pressed their temples together and broke down in tears.

* * * * * * *

Bishop Gamaliel?s sleek limousine pulled in at the compound of the palace. On alighting, he was led into the palace by a junior staff officer. There was a laptop computer on the table as usual in the president?s office. The guest was ushered into an arm-chair directly opposite the host so that they could converse face to face, literally. Being a hot afternoon, President David Kalya had removed his coat, revealing a broad fighter?s chest in a white shirt, and blue tie. He sat with his palms clasped together, somehow supporting the chin, with elbows resting on the table. Having shaken hands, they commenced a conversation. Hardly had they been discoursing on commonplace matters for the first five or so minutes when Bishop Gamaliel ventured to enquire into his host?s secret dream. ?The last time I visited you, I was privileged to learn from your friend Judas of your great dream. Sorry, I wasn?t able to get the gist of the message well from my informant; your confidant .I was however quite intrigued and stirred in the belly. I had a conviction it?s really a tangible idea you contemplate undertaking. I would be quite pleased, Your Excellency, to hear from the horse?s mouth?. The Bishop said, his hands resting on top of his knees. A feeling of hollowness and utter defeat crept into President David?s heart, increasing with every passing second. It was akin to standing before the Almighty God on the judgment day!

?Well, Bishop Gamaliel,? so he began to carry his idea into effect, ?in this life I belief every man born of woman is purpose-driven. Let me say that it was placed in me a burden, always growing heavier with time to the extent that it is now demanding to be brought to birth. I cannot at this time in the least refrain from making you acquainted with this agenda, Your Honor. The whole idea is about changing thee world, making the world a better place to inhabit. There are past heroes you may recall in this field, but there is always room for more of them in the land of the living. The centre of attention in this vision of mine is Israel. The plan is laid down like this: Sheba will enter in to a mutual partnership with Israel whereby Sheba will export to Israel raw gold at a fair price .To compensate us for tedious and costly process of mining and refining, a novel thing in this country, and better still to reciprocate this offer, Israel will supply us with their technological know-how and equipment necessary free of judge. Having exported this gold to Israel the next level of my vision is thus reached. Israel will under the Middle Eastern Convention, and it having veto powers under the establishment for being a super power, will use its now pure gold to leverage itself economically. It will after appealing to the concessionaire issue a degree ordering all oil producing nations in their league to cut oil prices they export to Africa by half. Countries of the world are bound top receive this noble gesture thumps up. The burden of high fuel costs will be relieved! The next thing ? a peaceful world!?

There was silence. The president was beside himself in the fervor of his speech. The short, burly, broad faced Bishop sat still, his gaze fixed past the president, pondering weighty issues. Bishop Gamaliel never saw a man so thoroughly give an array of events constituting his entire vision with passionate determination as David Kalya did that afternoon.

?But first, Bishop Gamaliel,? His Excellency pursued, ?I have to introduce into parliament a Bill that allows the country to mine and export this priceless stone as is stipulated in the constitution regarding mineral resources. Hopefully it will pass the debate and I will assent to it and bingo! Off we go!? The guest had smiled spontaneously by this time,

?That?s a great, magnificent pursuit! I wholly approve of it Your Excellency!? the conscience keeper interjected.

They went on to discuss other miscellaneous issues by the way of circumspection. David Kalya, buoyed by his agreeable companion expressed himself all the more. He was a man, so he said of himself, with an eye of an eagle; when situations were bleak; deep in his belly a passion rejuvenated his energy. Furthermore, he possessed the zeal of an ant; wisdom ingrained in his brain urged him to push on quite ahead of time no matter how far off his object of desire seemed to be. Bishop Gamaliel did more of listening while His Excellency did more of talking.

At last when the great guest took his leave and drove off, David was pleased to remain by himself to re-enact in his mind what they had been talking about. He could smile alone or even utter some words that had sounded pleasant and important to him as he first spoke them to his guest. He was like a deranged man! That afternoon had ended sweetly. Of all times of his that God had in his grip, there was none in one retrospect he could smile at half so much and think of half so tenderly!

CHAPTER SIX

Rose had been invited to a private party one evening by David Kalya. It came as a surprise to her. Her feelings for him were rekindled as soon as she entered his house. Her idea of first impression was to look as calm and tender as possible. They shook hands warmly and exchanged commonplace greetings. Rose was then ushered into a small comfortable sofa where she could sit with her arms reposed on arm-rests. She felt good and expectant. The two were alone in the house. David was wearing an evening sweater over a T-shirt. He looked youthful and attractive. He excused himself and entered the kitchen. Moments, later he was bringing to the table a lot of sumptuous food and drinks. He served her then himself. Rose was watching, so absorbed in his act. She was being treated like a queen. She kept wondering whether it was true she had arrived! She yearned for a married life to none other than this smart guy. Will it be today? She felt as though she was in a dream. A dream of their soft voices and laughter; of their sitting close to each other in a serene room with no prying eyes. Of being spoon-fed like a baby receiving the smothering affection of its mother; of being complimented and being patted on the back like a father?s gentle hand upon a son?s face.

After finishing their meal, David cleared the table. When Rose offered to help he turned her down and proceeded with his work.

He then came back and sat beside her (They were now sitting on one bigger sofa at the same table). They began to discuss intimate matters. David did not fathom how he got his way. He told her how he loved her. He told her how he idolized and worshipped her. When Rose hung her head and cried, and grew weaker, his eloquence increased. If she would like to die for him she had to say nothing but the word. Life without her love was not a thing to have on any terms. He had loved her every day since he first saw her, sincerely. He loved her to distraction! The more she sobbed, the more David ranted and raved. They were sitting on the sofa by and by, quite enough feeling comfortable and peaceful. Well, Rose agreed to his proposal. He was in a state of bliss. They were engaged.

They supposed they had some notion that this was to end in marriage. Yes they had it because Rose stipulated that they were never to get on to the next level without her uncle?s consent. Her uncle, called Mr. Bill Too, was living and working abroad. She had together with siblings received overwhelming support and love from this benevolent man in the past when her parents died in a plane crush. Therefore, it would not seem proper to sideline him, Rose observed, in the process of seeking marriage. He would also, she considered, receive her dowry in place of her parents.

* * * *

It was chilly afternoon. Bellringer sauntered casually into the palace. ?I said to myself go and see cousin this afternoon. How are you, most excellent?? he said, stretching out his hand while another one held a rolled newspaper which he seldom opened or read.

?Fine, sir. I am doing fine except for a few hitches here and there. It?s a good day, anyway,? returned President David Kalya apparently at peace with himself.

?I got leave today of a fortnight from boss. I?ll take advantage of my freedom. I Judas aka Bellringer by profession am goanna do ventures. I daresay whatever a man thinketh so he is. That is scripture. My paper discourage me saying a lot of trouble lurking everywhere. But my hope together with your big dream of peaceful world will hand in hand prevail. If so, why so? If no, why not?? said Kimuma fidgeting in his seat.

?I agree with you Mr. Kimuma. I love people who are optimistic regardless of the way things are. If the world had so many of you that would have been great and marvelous,? replied His Excellency, tapping the keys of his computer.

?Another thing is?sometimes I wonder why citizens disturb you everyday on TV. They shout, we are hungry! Your faithful MP and minister tell them, ?Government works hard to import cereals for you. Be patient and work on farms in the meantime?, but citizens cry, ?we?re perishing. We can?t wait any longer.? Poor citizens, your Excellency. They had rather shut up and spare you air and space!? Bell ringer ranted.

?These very problems are common to man. We must try to put up with them for the sake of humanity and brotherhood,? David said, moving the mouse. He appeared relaxed like a jaunty, happy- go-lucky fellow in movies.

?I hear from your text messages you?ve just proposed to the one and only Rose. Kudos! Cuzo,

That lady is like a charming fabulous woman in fairy tales. The one who can transform you into whatever you wish like Midas touch. My regards to Rose, tough, talented challenger par excellence. I hope she won?t oppose your great plan you?re planning. I bet or oppose that you and Rose will share the dream, instead. Together you?ll work out a concrete action.? Judas delivered his flattering remarks in broken English. ?I hope so?? His Excellency answered.

His Excellency?s assistant who was a middle aged, married woman came in to serve both of them with tea. She was stricken in years though still young. It was understood that life had dealt a blow to her in more than one way, leaving her to lead a wretched life. She had labored so hard at her previous manual jobs prior to getting the present one which she could never relinquish to anyone in the world. The old, unfulfilled, unhappy feeling still pervaded in her life, with no end in sight. What she missed, something obscure, she regarded as having been a youthful fantasy that was in the long run incapable of realization. An elusive object. ?Thanks, ma?m,? Kimuma broke the silence, a wry a smile on his face and a short-lived giggle. ?By lavishing us with cups of beverage you are doing the society a lot more good than harm. Well done! God bless your children and multiply them by many! Madame Pauline.? Madame Pauline walked out with an indifferent, expressionless look. She was perhaps wounded by the comment about children for she had tried all possible ways to have one but all in vain. Medical tests with her husband brought her down in all respects. Sometimes either of them could tell the other one reprovingly, ?You ruined my life.? Gossiping, regretting, shame and guilt punctuated the couple?s lives day in day out.

Almost an hour or so later on, a government officer?s car pulled in at the compound of the palace. When the officer alighted he was intercepted by a youthful looking man. ?What mission, sir? I?m in charge.? the man queried like an FBI agent.

?To see His Excellency, sir? answered the officer.

?Have appointing letter? Show!?

?No sir. It is an emergency case,? pleaded the officer.

?No permission then to disturb Most Excellency.?

If the receptionist had been beyond earshot, the officer who appeared genuinely in need of the president could have gone back dejected. She hurriedly approached them and said, ?Please, Mr. Judas Kimuma, our honorable Bellringer, please allow him in. It seems sincerely in an emergency situation.? The officer was cleared to accomplish his mission that had almost hit an iceberg.

CHAPTER SEVEN

Rose, Lavender and Diana were engrossed in the game of scrabble. It was a Saturday evening at Rose?s home. Scarcely had they started when with hesitation Diana formed the word MISCEGENATION. She doubted whether the word really existed, holding her breath awaiting a score. ?Diana, you are correct! The word actually exists!? Lavender intoned,

?What?s the meaning?? Diana questioned with eyes wide open.

?It is a term that was used nearly four decades in America. It was used to describe whites and Africans? unions in marriage. In deed it was an ugly ? sounding connotation because those unions were discouraged in those days,?? Lavender explained with an air of all?rounded knowledge. Hardly had they proceeded with their game when Rose in a similar manner of hesitation and uncertainty, had come up with the word ?CYBERPUNKING?. ?Good heavens! This one defines a situation where two or three callers to a radio station can engage in direct conversation on air. The first known station to introduce this concept was the world class station BBC. This makes a fantastic forum.? expounded Diana. She looked like an acclaimed scholar. This went on for quite a good deal of time as they enjoyed the game.

Later when they stopped playing scrabble and Lavender was alone in the sitting room, she watched a short play on television. the channel that was airing the play was one of the Sheba?s neighboring country and the cast were high school students of that country. Against the backdrop of that program was that nation?s struggle to achieve a new constitution. Indeed it was in such tumultuous and stormy moments with respect to a draft that was shot down acrimoniously by two thirds majority of the nation on plebiscite on claims it never met the needs of the people. Presently, several committees (and numerous sittings) were busy reviewing and trying to harmonize contentious sections of the proposed draft constitution - but not without opposition and bickering over and over. Lavender was captivated by a scene where an officer distributes at random a few loaves of bread to the audience urging them to eat them. He goes back to stage and wonders why nobody had embraced his generosity. He is led to infer that the loaves were of poor quality. He invites others to work hard with him to produce good quality bread. Somewhere in the process they differ with one another over the best method to produce palatable bread and they part ways. The experts are recalled to resume the same unfinished process and are still clashing as the scene changes.

Through their meetings and mostly in the company of his friends Rose, Kogi fell for Diana. He could not forget the sisterly feeling with which she regarded him. She always showed him sympathy whenever he was in a trying moment in his career of sales and marketing; for so often his performance would fall below the threshold of the company?s portfolio expectations. Market forces were always at work and much like the usual air hovering above the sea water which may occasion a tempest, those forces would buffet his delicate acts. Consequently, he had to endure the scolding of his inconsiderate, domineering master. He could not fully permeate the enigma of his own heart to pin point when he began to think that he might have settled his delicate hopes on Diana. With her being a banker he considered her to make a good wife; he regretted his first relationship which failed and resulted in an acrimonious parting of ways after their opinion carried the day. All throughout the ups and downs of that relationship which trucked for two long years, Diana was at his side to encourage him or sympathize with him when hurt. Taking a retrospect he felt that if she had loved him with another kind of love he would have been wise enough not to let her slip through his fingers. All the same, there was the time factor, his own blind spot leading him on a stray route; a mist of compromised affection veiled all the while. And he had cast Diana?s special love away consciously or unconsciously.

One fine morning Kogi, having been agitating all night and barely an hour sleep on aggregate, made up his mind. He picked up his cell phone from the bedside table resignedly. He called her, apologized and asked her out for a date in the evening of the present day at his favorite rendezvous ?Dates World Hotel. She consented. All Kogi had to do was to count hours, his spirit heightening with every passing hour.

It was half past five that evening, the time that Kogi had much anticipated when he prepared to leave his office. He was glad to take leave of his colleagues who always made his day boring and monotonous. The gossiping, quarreling and coarse laughter nauseated him all day long when he did not go out for field trips. All done, he left and drove off.

As he entered the hotel, Diana was already awaiting him sitting at the table in a serene corner. He was quite taken by surprise and amazement to realize that she had made it in time for he thought he would be the one waiting for her. After exchanging greetings Kogi ordered tea and snacks.

?Well, Diana, well? Kogi began, composed. ?You may hardly comprehend whatever I?ve been undergoing. You may be able to deduce that I am a happy man on face value, but deep down there are undercurrents of regrets, betrayal and despair. In accumulation of these vices, I?ve plunged into debasing circumstances in my career and relationship.? He paused, affected by his words.

?I understand every bit of it Kogi?? Diana rejoined. I?ve seen no bright or comforting day in those debasing circumstances and have not improved since I came out of that relationship.? Kogi lamented, adjusting himself on the chair, ?I?ve been keenly watching you and have been trying to pick you up,? Diana followed up.

?In an attempt, though a desperate one, to change my ways I seek now to implement new approaches. But I?m reeling under those burdens that brought me down.? Mist filled his eyes and he blew his nose.

?Sorry, my dear.?

?I feel that I have been fooling around and too deluded into believing that things turn out better miraculously some day. Like a fool that never sees the truth I took you for granted. All your counsel fell on deaf ears?. He broke down in tears.

?Oh, dear Kogi! Come off it! I will stand by you!? implored Diana, touching him on the shoulder. ?For heavens? sake? I confess that I have never made any sufficient progress. At the point when I am on the verge of a breakthrough things fall apart.? Kogi sobbed, wiping his tears with a handkerchief. Tears stopped. ?My mind has been on you ever since. My coming to meet you was for me to make a confession. A confession of a stubborn, prodigal boy. I regret my past wandering and would like to start on a clean slate with you.?

Diana too shed tears. Clients in the hotel watched them with gaping mouths. On becoming aware of these prying eyes, Kogi composed himself ?Please don?t weep.? Kogi said standing, ?let?s leave here and we?ll finish it up later.? He paid the bill and as they walked out, their hearts throbbed with emotions.

CHAPTER EIGHT

President David Kalya was introducing the Bill bearing the weight and fate of his lifetime dream into the floor of parliament for debate. He had taken the trouble to consult with significant personalities including Rose and his deputy. Even then, as he stood before the legislators upon whom his dream squarely rested, he still harbored reservations and doubts. Anyway, come what may, he took a leap of faith, trusting his men and women to hold him in the air. Do the thing and you shall have the power, he told his soul.

After moving the Bill that proposed the mining and exportation of gold in the country, he sat down. He refrained from divulging other details besides that, acting on the advice of friends.

He had to move step by step and resist the temptation to ?throw pearls to the pigs? as Mr. Kimuma had cautioned him. Suffice to say that not even Rose was conversant with the full account of the horizons of the vision. She had to wait, His Excellency considered. She was not present when he introduced the Bill in parliament this day.

As the speaker took over to open the debate, the dream carrier got jittery. There was a brief strained silence as no MP was yet risen to second his motion yet he had beforehand painstakingly implored some trustworthy ones to come to his rescue. With his restless, darting eyes he scanned the rows. Then after some minutes one dear friend rose to his feet to second the motion. There were hushed murmurs as Mr. Dick Mburu went on. His Excellency could not locate the sources of the grouses; whether from the executive side or from the opposition side. It did not matter, anyway. After Mr. Dick Mburu?s seconding an opponent came next. The second opponent took the floor, then the third, fourth. David?s hands began to glisten with sweat profusely, not least his face and neck in the tight tie that virtually suffocated him. His handkerchief accomplished very little as it soon grew damp.

It transpired that the Bill was not feasible since the gold deposits in question were said to be lying on the ground directly underneath Sheba?s boundary with Gilboa, the neighboring country. The revelation crushed the president ruthlessly. There was a tumult in the house. Obstacles! The speaker was left with no option except to adjourn the debate until Tuesday the following week. The present day being Thursday, the MPs, as the speaker ruled, had four days to ponder the matter so as to present decent, well researched views that would culminate in voting.

The president was driven to his house that evening despairing, took his supper despairing and retired to bed still despairing. Soon and thankfully, he fell off his cliff and down the precipice of sleep. He woke from the dreary dream at quarter past three at dawn with a conscious feeling that something had gone wrong somewhere without managing to make out what it really was until a moment later. It came to him in the form of a Bill that collapsed in dramatic circumstances, a lazy seconder and hordes of bare- knuckled pugilists. Another thing: his counterpart of Gilboa was his political foe. Both leaders were not in good books with one another. They had fallen out with each other when the heads of state of six countries in a league were electing the Regional Chairperson. This came hot in the heels of the signing of the Regional Charter. David doubted whether the provisions of the charter would come in handy in this issue. Or was it just a mere paper and not a vital document? This looming obstacle portended a bleak aftermath. Given the present circumstances he had to act expediently if he ever wanted to win this battle. He knew that it was indispensable for him to seal all loopholes that any serpent of betrayal would dare to squeeze itself through.

Later that evening he assembled the vice president, Mr. Dick and Rose for an informal meeting in the palace. To make the meeting seem less sensational and more relaxed, he entertained his guests with beverages, drinks and snacks. He worked harder at his jokes today than as usual. Something though displeased him. He detested his deputy?s indifferent, unfeeling look on his face. He doubted that this was the man?s true personality, deducing that it was instead some sort of weapon. Yet he still prayed to God for a destiny helper.

Then with a good dose of trepidation and caution, he broached the topic after seeing that the coast was clear. After sufficiently expounding on the issue, throwing light on its strengths and weaknesses he paused to ask, ?which way forward, Madam Rose and gentlemen?? he waited.

?The Gilboa phenomenon,? the VP said, thoughtfully, ?is one that we can?t ignore. There is really no getting around it without sustaining minor injuries on our hands. President Makonde is really a tough ? headed, mysterious and eccentric leader. You have heard of his controversial affairs, today this, tomorrow that. He?s very unpredictable and unreliable, at that. You can?t make him a partner in any endeavor. We need to be tactful, using strategic approaches.? David was sincerely glad that his deputy was giving his rational views.

?What His Excellency VP asserted is something significant. President Makonde ruled his subjects with a heavy hand; imposing bans on almost everything. Recall his recent ban on the drinking of borehole water?? Mr. Dick cracked a joke and he laughed hysterically. The three others kept him company in the laughter.

?I suppose we have to make good use of emissaries. I mean, we should select a good breed of sages to spy out there for good reasons. The idea is to use this fellow to silently coerce President Makonde or anybody close to him that this is a noble project. When his government consents to that, the mining of gold will commence,? Rose advised.

At the end of the discussion it was agreed that Rose?s idea was feasible. It was a little progress, but a good progress anyway. The project was to become a prototype of socio- political emancipation.

Later that night as he lay in his bed tossing and turning with no prospect of a wink of an eye, David Kalya was led to appreciate the value of relationships. That the type of man?s relationships was so consequential that it determined how far he could go no matter his field of endeavor. But on judging it critically without bias or favoritism, he concluded that men and circumstances were variables on the one axis with universal values being constants on the other axis. Man?s inherent qualities of hate, malice and bride stood in the way of an ideal life, disturbing the equilibrium of a healthy fruitful society. Yet coming back, he could figure out where he stood with people. Everybody he knew crystallized into a person bubbling with feelings, tastes and differences in opinions, and not cogs in a wheel.

* * * *

Once when they were out on a date Kogi and Diana settled the matter. They were engaged. They were already so closely acquainted with each other that in just a matter of three shorts months they got married.

Kogi was so immensely in love with his new companion that he could not believe himself. Often as he sat working on his marketing reports way into the night, it kind of surprised him on turning his head to see her sitting somewhere beside him. She belonged to him in every sense of the word. At times when he was late from work at night or had been with friends at social places it moved him to have her waiting to hug him at the door. This was the actualization of a boyhood fancy. He had to savor every moment of being in her company. For where else could he obtain such pure love? Where else could he get that awesome sense of being complete? Or secure? He had never felt so confident in his life. Telling her of her incomparable vivacity and beauty. Holding her by her tender waist and telling her favorite stories of all times. Telling her how life would be non-existent without her presence in the world. It was a beautiful, meaningful life for him and days were all sunshine for her.

Tuesday parliament's session got off to a bad start. Finance Minister was gravely incriminated in a corruption scandal involving the sale of a five -star hotel which was a public asset. A report by an independent audit firm had been released that early morning pending parliament's afternoon session. The media frenzy was evident as they looked for who-dunnits. The country was in an uproar of dissenting voices. Consequently, angry MPs agitating to lay their hands on some wayward fox in a poultry house snarled at the two officers at the helm of the Executive to not think of going to bed before effecting a concrete action. "Fire him! Fire him!" Was the macabre slogan the irate lawmakers vented out all throughout the session. No words could express the agony the president underwent as he plunged into this storm headlong; he compared this situation with other better nations; and felt his hopes of ever becoming the world's distinguished visionary leader shattered in his heart. The speaker was wise enough to adjourn the motion on gold mining until further notice. Parliament was required to attend to pressing matters first.

CHAPTER NINE

Acting on Rose's suggestion for the use of special emissaries as he worked on his plans, President David Kalya began to search for some prospective persons for the mission as the matter pended in parliament. His recourse was to get something done in the meantime. He tried to think about the best persons fit to carry out the mission expediently. The deal need not precipitate a furore in Gilboa, so he reasoned as he lay on his bed staring into darkness. He liked being in this position that enabled him to think well without interference. On particular days when he had undergone harrowing situations of any kind, that atmosphere helped him to cool down. A prayer to God was also indispensable at such times. That helped to rejuvenate his will to face another day.

No sooner had he fallen asleep than his cell phone rang. He wondered who it was (Rose often called at such times). He reached for it and seeing an unfamiliar number on the screen, he received it. The army officer who was calling him informed him that his boss Major General Ben Tele had been murdered in cold blood. That Maj. General Tele's body was found in his house in Nasa city and police had already managed to arrest a few suspects. His Excellency only managed to offer his condolence message and promised to push for investigations. He fell asleep with a heavy heart.

Early in the morning he woke up with a start. There were two pressing issues at hand: Minister for Finance to be investigated over corruption cases and the murder of Maj. Gen Tele to be probed. Hurriedly, he took his breakfast and drove to the palace in such sunken spirits as to despair of everything in life including life itself.

Arriving there at six thirty, he called the VP, Internal Security Minister and Secretary to the Cabinet to turn up for an emergency meeting. He waited. Minutes later they arrived one by one. Internal Security Minister, a middle aged, balding man called Mr. Mutiso arrived first. David shook hands with the guest, telling him what a sad, shocking world they dwelt in and made mention of the two cases as a prelude to a future deliberation. The VP turned up and immediately was followed by the Secretary to the Cabinet, the president giving similar versions of the stories each time.

"As things stand we are at this moment faced by two monsters." His Excellency said formally. "We have to chart a way forward and act expediently. First of all, what shall we do with the monster of corruption?"

There was a brief silence as each person pondered the issue. "I think we must listen to the people's voice. The MPs echoed those voices albeit with ulterior motives. You do understand what I mean. His Excellency and I had to endure emotional torture in parliament last Tuesday. It was even a great dishonor to us in the eyes of the international community as all took place in the full glare of live cameras. So my point is that we sack the Finance Minister to pave way for a probe into the sale of the hotel." The VP emphasized his standpoint. The president nodded. In his heart he was touched by the VP's comment that both of them suffered emotional torture in that session.

"Well, I do concur with Mr. VP," said Secretary to the Cabinet, an old man with graying hair. He opened his briefcase and pulled out some document. "Shall we effect the move right now?"

The VP and the president nodded to him, thus he held a pen and wrote something on the document. "Any objection, Mr. Mutiso?" His Excellency asked, looking at the minister.

"No objection Mr. president. He deserves a sacking, not for the sake of it but to pacify the citizens and help them to know that something worth the while is underway," Mr. Mutiso replied.

"Good," said the president. "Shall we now move to the next monster? The tragedy that was the murder of Maj. Gen. Ben Tele. As of now I haven't received any new developments except that police have held some suspects in custody."

"I want to believe that this murder is not linked to the accusations he got that he plundered resources while leading UN operations in Gilboa. You know that would present us with bigger challenges. Of late, even before this calamity struck, I've been haunted for we overlooked that matter then and left him go unscathed. As he led the operations that were aimed at rooting out militia in a rebel movement against President Makonde, the UN made allegations that the General had wrought irrevocable plunder of resources. The report reached us, but we never took any action,? said Mr. Mutiso, pensively. There was silence. After concluding their talks the president convened a press briefing session with the country's reporters. He briefed the nation on the government's actions.

* * * *

At last Kogi and Diana settled down in their newly acquired posh home in a luxurious part of Nasa city called Denver. It was a dream come true. Both of them being Christians, they had been praying to God to change their status quo and exalt them. And their prayers were answered. They even got new neighbors in that area and some of whom turned out to be their greatest friends. Mr. Jack Kuto, his wife Mrs. Irene Kuto, their twelve year old son, Amos and their eight year old daughter, Doreen were a family that struck a special friendship with Kogi and Diana. They used to visit each other at their homes to chat, dine or play games. Moreover, their houses were set in idyllic surroundings The first instance that the two families got acquainted with each other was one day when Mr. and Mrs. Kuto visited the home of Kogi and Diana. After the usual introductions, they engaged in a relaxed conversation as though they had known one another for a while. Mr. Kuto, a jovial entrepreneur doing his ventures in the city, owning three supermarkets dominated the discussions with his favorite subject. "This government is really funny. I read in today's paper that they will soon impose price controls on every wholesale and retail product sold in this country. That's ridiculous. At a time when the prices of most products were rebounding, this regulation will impair our ventures!" "Mercy upon us! Mercy upon us!" Mrs. Kuto could just cry so and said nothing more.

"That's so unfortunate for you, Mr. Kuto. You see, what the government might be doing in good faith might turn out to be counterproductive for other people in this case it's you businessmen. Indeed this was well intended to favor the consumers," Kogi observed. Meanwhile Diana was in the kitchen preparing tea. ?There should be a balance, Kogi. The government must be keen enough to effect a compromise such that neither side suffers the adverse effects precipitated. Like balancing the scales," Mr. Kuto said, gesturing with both hands to give the impression of the scales. "Mercy upon us! Mercy upon us!" cried Mrs. Kuto, pressing Doreen to her bosom who seemed sleepy that early evening. "My business has been actively and positively picking up. Mark you; nobody ever discerns that my business is flourishing on loans. Loans from two sources - the bank and a Shylock. I've been able to service those loans as safely as walking out in the rain under an umbrella. It's all a battle of wits. As a professional in a business environment you must master the rules and not let them master you. Be creative, consistent and cautious. Those are the three 'C s? I employ on a day to day basis, my friend. By so doing you'll be able to beat your rivals at their own game!" Mr. Kuto expounded with great passion. His wife just listened quietly, patting her daughter softly. Amos was sitting beside his father, drinking in his high-sounding phonetics. "Business is an art as well as a science; those who master it are victorious," Kogi philosophized. It was time for tea. Diana emerged from the kitchen and filling the cups on the table she prayed in a gentle sweet voice, "Oh Lord, we thank you for the visitors we have this evening. Bless us all as we partake of this cup of tea. For it's in Jesus? name that we've prayed and believed. Amen!" "Amen!" They drank, still discussing the government policy in the Trade Ministry. They talked about the death of Maj - Gen Ben Tele, suggesting that the killing was politically motivated. They approved the sacking of the Finance Minister saying that those callous, selfish persons should be eliminated from anywhere near the leadership of Sheba, the lovely nation. As they were still talking and drinking their beverage, somebody turned up at the door. Since he WAS in the public eye - everybody recognized him -Judas Kimuma needed no introduction. He greeted everyone in the house, displaying a posture of dominance and notoriety. "Hey ladies and gentlemen! So you're my new neighbors around here? I've just arrived from my workplace at -Nasa Stock Exchange." He announced volubly, pausing before the name. "All my life I've discovers that neighbors and friends are people special: help in times of joy and trouble. I hereby declares that we shall work together for our own good. If at any one time you're in trouble won't I help you? If so, why so? If no, why not??? "It's so Bellringer. The Bible says a good friend sticks closer than a brother," Kogi returned, looking distastefully at his visitor who was smiling with a smirk and writhing incessantly on his chair. At that moment, Mr. Jack Kuto rose to his feet and thanking Kogi and his wife, he asked to take leave with his family and left. Bellringer lingered in the house. "There is a tide in the affairs of men!" He was familiar with Shakespeare. "We live among funny people in Sheba. Come to think of it. Killing army general, corruptions, empty stomach, all this disturbing His Excellency! If only we live in a haven he would be the most happiest angel on earth!" he held his head in both hands. "Problems are there to mould us into better people, Judas. The way we handle challenges shows how mature and intelligent we are and portrays our attitude to life. It's not what happens to you that counts but how you respond to what happens to you. Even Jesus himself who was both God and man faced problems," Kogi argued. "No, don't tell me philosophies of academia! I see problems as angels to destruction. I hate them!" Judas charged. CHAPTER TEN Over the next few weeks, intelligence officers informed President David Kalya that the situation in some part of the country was growing from bad to worse. Tension had gripped the village of Roma and residents were always living in constant fear of a disruption. The kin and kith of the murdered Maj - Gen hailing from that vicinity were agitating to lynch his murderer- a woman they recognized as his girlfriend and who had personally confessed to killing him, the reports said. The young woman had fled to her village of birth to escape arrest after committing the heinous act. Some of her accomplices who were found at the scene of the crime had fallen into the grips of the police. The others who had gone underground were the ones who eventually leaked the secret to the village. Young, bewildered, raging men armed to the tooth marched through the village to lay their hands on the savage woman. Kindly elderly women pleaded with the young men not to harm her, urging them to let the matter rest in a court of law. The police had tarried in coming to the scene, the reports revealed. The young men, itching to let out their long suppressed emotions, accused the government of betrayal, arguing that the killing was politically motivated seeing as the woman who was a political activist belonged to a different tribe and might have conspired with other politicians to kill their own up-coming leader. The president, sitting inside the palace, was perturbed by this news from the countryside. But through all the cacophony David Kalya plainly discerned that challenges were bound to be cropping up from time to time as he pursued his dream; and it was in his drive home later that evening that the thought first occurred to him which afterward shaped itself into a resolution. He had become in a short span of time so drawn close to Rose and was so incapacitated without her loving motivation that keeping her on the periphery of his issues and treating her like the girl next door was never going to help him at all. All his misery grew more significant with each passing day; and so he determined to be vulnerable to Rose, the empress of his heart, if he was to lead a purpose-driven life. The stakes were high. Envoys from Israel had just informed him that the nation was ready, waiting for green light. And furthermore, the nation had fully amended her peace policies with neighboring countries, calling for relaxed relations. They pledged to eliminate ignominy from the region. America too had pledged to sponsor the use of solar energy in Africa, for it was a form of renewable energy and environment friendly.

On arriving at his house, he ordered his houseboy to bring him a cup of tea. He sat at the table, switching on television channels aimlessly and absentmindedly with the remote control. He picked up his cell phone and called Rose. Rose?s car pulled in about half an hour later in the parking lot. She was in for a discussion as her fianc? had pre-empted her. ?Welcome. You?ve arrived too soon! How was the traffic?? he said, shaking her hand and leading her to the house.

?The traffic was easing. If I had driven nearly ten minutes ago I couldn?t have made it here on time that easily.? She sat in an elegant, comfortable armchair in a perfect repose. David Kalya served her a cup of tea. His houseboy was committed in an activity within the homestead. In an effort to put on a composed mood he started the story of Maj-Gen Ben Tele. ?I confess that the woman who killed him was my campaign manager during my elections.?? Rose admitted. ?She was your manager!? David interjected. ?Yes. I even attribute my breakthrough in my election to her efforts. Without her I wouldn?t have sunk into oblivion,? she revealed. ?A police officer told me she?s now in custody. She?s confessed to hitting him with an iron bar in a duel in his house. A foreign journalist in the country says there are suspicions it was not a domestic violence but a premeditated assassination.?

?The police should easily establish whether the murder was due to an accident or deliberate or whether it was it was an orchestrated assassination.?

He called the police commander on phone at that moment asking him to investigate whether Maj-Gen Tele?s fianc?e acted alone or with a group of people. Rose commented that whenever a high profile person died in Sheba there were often suspicions about how they met their end. The allegations about his plundering of Gilboa?s resources while leading operations there on rebels against President Makonde?s administration did not make matters any better.                                                                              President David Kalya allayed fears that that fiasco would jeopardize his relationship with his fianc?e. He purposed to accord it a positive attitude approach. Though it was shrouded in mystery, the truth would not be elusive in the long run, he believed. ?Sorry?, he said at length, ?for having been keeping you at an arms length in matters pertaining to my personal feelings and convictions. I ask that from now onwards we shall be working together mutually in our personal aspirations and trying to support each other when facing difficult situations. In this life, every moment, everywhere are issues which evoke our emotions: be it a baby enjoying its mother?s love; a teenager battling with emotional changes; a newly married young adult with new challenges; or an elderly person with memory loss or pangs of nostalgia. That said, two is better than one, so says the Bible. I need you as much as you need me.? There was a moment?s silence as the atmosphere of the room was saturated with emotion.                ?I do understand. I?ll be there for you dear,? Rose said, wiping tears.                                                                         So tender and relaxed Mr.Kalya was that he found himself confiding to Rose as a close, trustworthy friend about his ambition in its entirety, often apologizing to her that he had been selfishly withholding some part of it from her. Rose consented and promised to lend him a hand, and press forward to accomplish the mission. The two love birds even agreed to work together in solving problems of national concern not only as engaged partners but also as the country's leaders. At the end of the highly sensational conversation that dusk, they parted with a warm hug, each one rejuvenated and content.                                                                                                                                                                 *                      *               *                 *                                              Sitting under a tree in the afternoon sun Rose explained to her sister Lavender in a
typically earthy metaphor how to deal with AIDS: ?When a leopard comes into your village you
can't be silent. You have to do something even if it means shouting.? The sisters were awaiting a
conference they were going to attend two hours later. Kogi had invited them to the conference
his company organized on AIDS where he would be the chief speaker. This was part of the
company's corporate social responsibility. It was set to be attended by key players from the health sector and members of the public. Since he had done courses on AIDS prevention and mitigation and being a good orator, Kogi had been appointed to give address. Rose was on off duty that day and was in one of her happiest moods.                                                                                                                       Lavender was joyful that at least every level of society in Sheba had come round to
getting involved; from traditional healers to sports teams to musical groups. Not only that,
lessons on AIDS were being taught in almost every classroom. Churches and church-related
bodies conducted vigorous campaigns   for the youth be empowered to make healthy and responsible life choices. Furthermore, every public officer           of any rank was ordered to highlight AIDS in speeches. "If you put your hand in an anthill and a snake bites you, who can
you blame?" was a slogan every speaker piped up. "Abstaining is really hard. Opportunities and temptations for young people to engage in sex are great but one has to make up his or her mind,? Lavender put across.                                                                                                                                          "If a young person stops living in denial, he will easily avoid taking risks. That way they will be esteemed," Rose rejoined.                                                                                                                               It was at twenty past four when Rose and Lavender were inside Nasa Conference Centre. Kogi climbed the platform confidently and stood directly in front of them from their seats. He wore a bluish t-shirt with the bold inscriptions: 'WHY WAIT? BECAUSE
I AM SPECIAL' clearly marked across            the chest. With that and             Kogi's introductory remarks it transpired to the audience that the conference was targeting the youth by all means. This was the most vulnerable group in every sense of word. Kogi's speech was excellent, so Rose and her sister complimented. They listened, keenly drinking in every word proceeding from his mouth.

CHAPTER ELEVEN Eventually President David Kalya, liberated from the fear of the unknown, proclaimed

His dream to everybody in its entirely. He disclosed to key people locally and internationally the

God- given vision he possessed. As if he had tapped a hidden potential, amazing things began

to occur. Since he had liaised with leaders of Israel, the country had sent in a high powered

delegation to meet him and chart the way forward. His Excellency was elated. His hopes were

raised, They were coming to assure him that they were together in solidarity to ensure that this
vision would be realized-in the long run. They explained that they had put everything in a place for

the project and would embark on it as soon as they saw the green light. As they conversed with His Excellency at the palace they revealed that Israel was going to leverage itself on its imported gold which they would refine and sell out at an exorbitant price. Coupled with its status as a Veto Power, the new privilege would definitely put it on the edge in order that it would exert influence on the other countries in the Middle Eastern Region to reduce the prize of fuel sold to Africa by half, if possible, less than that. This, Israel will execute after first appealing to a concessioning body in the region. President David Kalya, the delegates hinted, would be honored in a marvelous way.

Later that day the president presided over a media house's anniversary. The media house called Nasa Media Group which comprised a newspaper, a television station, and a radio station had rendered inestimable services to the people of Sheba for sixty years. It had experienced a bumpy ride since its fledgling days to a world class organization at present. Not only that, spiced up with internet editions of newspaper, the media house was the leading one in the region. This day spoke volumes about the milestone that was the height of press freedom in the nation of Sheba. On this day a special newspaper pull-out filled with memoirs of the organization was rolled off the press.

In the conclusion of his speech the president stated: "It's regrettable that African leaders spend too much time politicking rather than on nation building which should be the highest calling of every one of us. As we celebrate this media house's anniversary, commending its fortitude and tenacity, all of us (Africans) must roll up our sleeves and get to work."

That night Bishop Gamaliel who was one of the speakers at the function spent time with
the president at the latter's house. "I can see you're doing very well presently," Bishop Gamaliel
said, his short legs sprawling before him as he sat, " despite the hardships.??

"Yes, despite the
hardships," said David Kalya vehemently. "No condition is permanent. Challenges come and go
in the same manner that opportunities do. Failure comes in the same package as success."
"What did parliamentarians have reservations about?"

"Initially, they were apprehensive that
Gilboa's administration would pose a challenge since we both share gold deposits at the border.

But when I consulted with several key people, I was encouraged that we can pass the Bill even before we can bring the matter to the attention of President Makonde. As a matter of fact, the matter will be tackled tomorrow in parliament. Afterwards we shall take the bull by its horns."

While they were still talking, Judas turned up abruptly at the door."Hey, Bishop. How do

you do? You are back in Sheba again? I believe the best place to be on earth is Sheba alone.
Attesting this fact is to have the likes of you visiting''. Kimuma said in one breath. Bishop Gamaliel
nodded lazily. In a fleeting moment Judas disappeared into thin air and moments later he was

serving supper with His Excellency's houseboy. When everyone including the young boy had

eaten, Judas dashed into the kitchen and brought for himself a huge amount of the meal, no doubt

larger than anyone else had taken. Sitting down leisurely at the table, he devoured large chunks greedily. As he watched TV Bishop Gamaliel could cast glances reprovingly at this unpleasant creature. With a full mouth, Bellringer would coarsely voice up a point or two.

* * * * * Parliament was in session. It was three o'clock in the afternoon. MPs were debating the
Bill which had been christened Gold Bill. Government chief whip was the one who moved the
motion on the Bill on behalf of the president who had gone abroad on a state business. There

was a furore and fiasco in the house that afternoon. Rose, the official opposition leader was in

such sunken spirits after being linked to the killing of Maj-Gen Ben Tele by some members
during questions time. She was accused of distancing herself from Eve, formerly her campaign
manager in her elections. To answer those speculations she had complained that she was being falsely accused by skeptics and cynics who were bent on obliterating her political career. She shed tears as she concluded her personal statement. Then came the crucial Gold Bill. With the effects of the onslaught on her integrity still profound in her heart, she remembered her fianc?s dream. She was at crossroads. She could not face her rivals to drum up support for it after being affronted. She could only answer back rudely those who came up to her seat to consult with her regarding the issue. This exacerbated the situation. The legislators could not bring themselves to

agree on voting either. The speaker adjourned the motion unceremoniously.

* * * *

Early one Saturday morning, Rose drove to Kogi's home to pay a visit to the young family. She was received warmly with hugs at the compound on her arrival. Hardly had she sat down for a relaxed chit-chat when Mr. and Mrs. Kuto turned up casually, being close neighbors and friends of the young family. Mr. Kuto, being an easy-going chap, was a great conversationalist who did not have to wait for a special moment to talk. "By the way," he was saying, "my business is declining at an alarming rate. Further compounding my problem are loans I have to repay to a shylock. Indeed he has incidentally a knife to my neck. My wife and I are having sleepless nights.??

Mrs. Kuto put on a pensive face and moaned. "It's so shameful, it?s regrettable. I don't know how Doreen and Amos will get their education." She was a housewife.

"The only thing that gives me joy and comfort is that Prado I bought recently. Though it's an exorbitant luxury my wife and I bought it for the sake of pleasure." He laughed, taking a sideways glance at his wife. "Hedonism sometimes is vital in the lives of men though it is ephemeral."

"Passion," commented Rose, "is a relative of hedonism and-"

"Passion makes success an ecstatic experience and failure a frustrating calamity!" Kogi broke in. "I've studied the lives of people who thrive in the world of pleasure and found that those people lead perilous lives of delusion and self- denial. They often go mad or even lose their lives when they come face to face with reality."

"You remind me," said Mr. Kuto, "of a man who was hooked to bhang. One day he left home and joined his peers who were using the drug. He was on cloud nine feeling top of the world. He stayed there a couple of days dabbling in his habit. Coming home one morning he was utterly devastated to learn that his wife had been buried after dying on the day he left. He had not been informed of the tragedy for fear of his reaction in his inebriated state of mind. And partly because he was being treated as a cast away in the extended family due to his bizarre addiction. He cried bitterly, and that marked the end of his drug addiction. He swore never to touch it again."

After Mr. and Mrs. Kuto's departure, Rose was happy that a sense of serenity and
confidentiality returned to the room. She wanted to have intimate and relaxed conversations with
Kogi and Diana. She needed them as her mentors and confidants; people who could understand
her and share in her sorrows and joys. She divulged that she was engaged to David Kalya,
highlighting how she perceived her role in parliament would sometimes jeopardize their
relationship. "You must communicate well together and agree that public or professional matters
however controversial or contentious they may be do not hamper your personal relationship,"
Diana advised. "Yes, make sure that the two parallel lines which are equally important do not
clash at some point. If that happens, anyway, do not hesitate to resolve it. And try to make
amends and reconciliation as soon as is humanly possible."

"Yes, draw the line between the two;
make clear- cut boundaries and agree to disagree. There is no perfect relationship: enduring
love makes sure that you are able to be reconciled to each other after a quarrel, the time

test ensures that your love has summered and wintered; and your hope ensures that your love

gives you new strength to continue pressing on. That's the journey love takes till it is consummated in marriage as pure gold," Kogi explained. Rose was motivated and felt her sorrows dissipating.

She drove back home with her head held high, hoping to soldier on with her marriage plans and deal victoriously with her adversities.

CHAPTER TWELVE

That same evening she met and talked face to face for the first time after what looked like eternity with her uncle Bill Too at Dates World Hotel. He had just arrived in the country with his family from London for a holiday. He was a humble, loving man who understood people and their problems. Attesting to this fact was that he had in his benevolence helped out Rose and her siblings during their dark days that ensued their parents' demise. It was a kind gesture, a noble response to a worthy cause, Rose reminisced. She narrated every detail concerning her marriage plans as enthusiastically as she could. "I'm glad,?? he said, "I really admire your determination and the steps you're taking." "Thanks," Rose replied gleefully. He turned down her request to receive dowry upon marriage, giving her the alternative to consider giving him a little token of appreciation instead. "It will surely be my memento of you!" He beamed, slapping her palm as the duo parted. Rose had never been so blissful. She could now see everything fall perfectly into place with her good uncle by her side. He had urged her to keep him posted on the progress she was taking. She was mesmerized.

It was at night on that day while she took supper that she made up her mind to let her sister Lavender in on her relationship with David Kalya. Lavender was the only sibling left with her in the house; the others were now working away after having graduated from college. Rose felt sufficiently at ease that night that she cast all fears to the four winds; she disclosed to her sister how she adored her husband to be. She narrated how his love for her had erased the times she would sulk by herself with none to care. "Uncle Bill is more than ready to participate in the wedding arrangements," Rose enthused. "Oh, it will be such a grand wedding," Lavender prophesied.

With Lavender's upbeat spirit about the matter clearly manifested, things were looking up for Rose like never before. She was all-smiles that night. She thanked God for every good thing coming her way. She was able to deal with her fears and scourging memories from the past. It was a high time she purged the intangible clutter that clogged up her mind to create room for fresh, sprightly ideas. There was now nothing intrinsically wrong with the promulgation of

her wedding arrangements.

* * * *

Over the next few weeks President David Kalya succeeded in instituting a commission of inquiry to probe into the scandalous sale of Voyage Hotel, a public asset It was an uphill task instigating the body as irate parties protested vociferously that it was tantamount to a waste of public funds. Critics of the government said the audit firm that blew the whistle on the scandal was a credible and reputable institution and qualified to name each and every suspect and the amount of funds misappropriated. The public on the other hand demanded a rapid procurement of funds and the culprits immediately brought to book. There were calls to have the sacked Finance minister indicted over his dealings in the scam. The president had carried on relentlessly and established the commission of inquiry which was to be chaired by Dr. Peter Werret, a Briton. The president defended the appointment of the man to the effect that the doctor had on many occasions chaired similar commissions across Africa with tangible breakthroughs. This was, nonetheless, taken with a pinch of salt.

One fine morning Dr. Peter Werret paid a courtesy call on the president at the palace. "How are you faring?" His Excellency said.

"I'm doing fine, Your Excellency," Dr Werret answered. He was a tall, huge man with the physique of a wrestler. He spoke with a deep bass.

"I strongly emphasize that you get the suspects to testify in person at the commissions' sittings. No lawyers."

"Yes, I'll do, Your Excellency. I know the craftiness of lawyers,"

"More than that make sure that the suspects don't leave the country. For that to be effective, confiscate their passports and liaise with the Migration Department to revoke their visas."

"All right, Your Excellency. No suspects should miss the witness stand at any one time. I'll surely enforce these regulations."

They went on talking about other miscellaneous issues and just as the guest prepared to leave, Madame Pauline, the president's personal assistant came in carrying a tray ready to serve breakfast. David Kalya noticed mat she was in distress by the look on her face. "You look so unhappy madam, what's the matter?" Scarcely did he finish his question when she let the tray slip through her fingers and fall onto the table in a gesture of great misery and anguish.

"I'm suffering, Your Excellency," she lamented, her head drooping forward as she stood helplessly.

"Did I hear you say suffering? Please tell me about it."

"So many troubles in my life: My hostile husband scolding me; no children; no peace; no contentment." She fell down on her knees and cried. His Excellency rushed helter-skelter completely at a loss what to do. Dr. Werret behaved as if he was ready to take to flight any moment.

Minutes later she was rushed to hospital in a palace van. Judas Kimuma in his usual walking style entered the palace holding a rolled copy of a newspaper. "I Judas aka Bellringer saw it with my very eyes. I say there's a tide in the affairs of men!" He laughed with derision and sat on a chair after shaking His Excellency's hand. "Problems come to take you upside down. Some people so unfortunate in life, not happy and blessed like me."

"May God help her," His Excellency remarked solemnly.

"You know what cousin? My boss grants me leave for today, totally free now!"

"That's good."

"The whole of last week we sold Sheba National Bank shares. This week sold Sheba Com IPO. I saw over-subscription!" he started to fidget on the chair.

It was in the afternoon of this day that there was public unrest over the ownership of Sheba- Com, a mobile telephone company on Initial Public Offer. Citizens were alarmed that the government owned seventy percent shares, a private investor twenty -five and the remaining five percent went to a shadowy cartel or an untraceable individual. Critics had tipped the media on the anomaly who in turn pilloried the affair. Citizens voiced their grievances of being hoodwinked. Foreigners particularly donors put the blame on President David Kayla?s administration calling for transparency and accountability with respect to matters of national interest.

Thus for the umpteenth time, things seemed to be putting David Kalya in an awkward, compromising position. Hence it was that he began to look about himself: His trifling progress, and small, hard-earned victories; and the empress of his heart could not manifest open pleasure about him so far. He could not get over this feeling for quite a long time, something which he nearly misconstrued as ill-fated. He managed to glean some nuggets which included learning to trust God regardless of circumstances. For that was the whole duty of man under the sun! Nobody could controvert that.

In the meantime, days and weeks elapsed. A new finance minister was appointed to supersede the one fired on grounds of embezzlement of funds. Luckily for the president, no trace of protest at that act was elicited. He had acted assiduously. He hoped. He believed he could ride on over all hurdles and win the race. Having some foundation to believe by this time that life gives what one demands and not what one deserves, he determined to cast aside all his cares, and focus with a single minded devotion on attaining his goal of a peaceful world. He had to change means as and when necessary but not change the goal. He motivated his soul with what Zig Ziglar stated thus: ?Little things make big differences in every facet of life, so to make the most out of life, give life the little extra that makes the difference between winning and losing? What a judicious statement!

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

"Darling, Rose is getting married soon! I'll fancy her wedding!" Diana exclaimed. "That's all what you've been talking about of late," Kogi responded calmly.

"I find myself mentioning her since Rose is a special friend of mine with whom I share deep secrets. I just cannot refrain from talking about her. Not only that, she's my mentor and role model, all in one package," Diana explained fervently.

"By the way, you heard of President David's dream for Sheba and the continent? I greatly admire this great visionary leader and adroit administrator," Kogi said.

"There you are my hubby! This is like the third time you're complimenting him. Rose is to me what His Excellency is to you!" Diana intoned with an air of victorious wisdom. The two were whiling away their time one evening in their house." It has been reported in the news that Rose has gone to the police commissioner's precincts to have her name expunged from the reports of the killing of Maj Gen Tele early today. She has accused her attackers of having the inclination to tarnish her reputation. Of imputing bad motives to her integrity,?? Diana said. She felt that Rose should be exonerated from the clutches of those conducting a vendetta against her.

"Of course she has got to do so if she has to protect her dignity. The principle of self-preservation, you may say. Good character is built by bricks of good example laid day by day, so they say. To destroy it which takes just a day or less would be utterly devastating. The police must investigate whether there was a plot to assassinate him,?? Kogi asserted.

"But how about this wicked woman, Eve? She's an imbecile and a lunatic! She's got to tell it all. Why did she commit the crime? Very disappointing," Diana yelled, almost losing her mind.

"But she has already confessed to hitting him with an iron bar. What more? What else?" Kogi asked. "Well -1 -I don't comprehend," Diana admitted resignedly.

As they were still at it, Mr. Kuto turned up in the house time alone. After exchanging greetings with them he sat in an arm-chair next to the door quite in a relatively reserved mood. "My friends," he said at length, "my finances are in a crunch. My supermarket ventures are turning insolvent." He looked about himself in a lost, despondent way so that Kogi and Diana pitied him.

"Sorry Mr. Kuto. Relax and let the matter not trouble your heart," Diana consoled him.

"And the shylock?" Kogi questioned inscrutably.

"There is an apparent lull in the storm as he has recently been silent. Nonetheless, I must brace for the worst. He might come back with a vengeance to reckon with. And it will be as bad as bad could be. It's my fate,?? Mr. Kuto expressed with exasperation. He was then taken with a troublesome cough.

Diana felt the utmost sympathy for him in this uncertain moment and said as much to Mr.Kuto; adding that she and her husband had the money sufficient to lend him and his family the amount they needed for basic necessities. Mr. Kuto replied, "You are my greatest friends in this life; but in the uncertain and unprecedented twists and turns of life, no man is an island." At this juncture, his children Doreen and Amos dashed into the house. Making straight for their father, they cleaved to him with their hands, weeping.

"Daddy, mum told us you are in great anguish and distress and that we should accompany you!" Amos cried, tears rolling down his little cheeks.

"Dear children, please don't worry about your dad. He is fine'' Diana comforted them.

"And Mr. Kuto, pull yourself together and be strong. Pick up your pieces and maintain your cool. Okay?" Kogi said, looking tenderly at his friend who was wiping tears. After the weeping had subsided in the room, Mr. Kuto cheered up and said, "Don't bother, friends. That was just an eruption of a volcano long suppressed, the aftermath of an internal contest more easily concealed than perceived."

It was not difficult for Mr. Kuto on Diana and Kogi's remonstration and advice, to resolve to spend within their means until after his ventures started improving. That is, until after his finances came back with the tide seeing as he had purchased a Prado at the outset of his

predicaments. That remained to be seen.

* * * *

At another meeting attended by the vice-president, Mr. Dick and Rose, that was convened by President David Kalya at Dates World Hotel, the idea of appointing emissaries was made good. Of the more than ten emissaries appointed one of them who stood out as the most valiant, competent and tactful called Caleb was chosen as the head. He was a young man. They had to go that far if ever David's dream was to be actualized. What necessitated all these was the kind of diplomatic relationship between Sheba and Gilboa that was ever shrouded in mysteries and controversies. Thankfully, Gold Bill had been passed by parliament. The next step was for it to move to the palace for the President's signature. After being assented to by the president, gold mining and exportation of it to Israel would be a fresh new law in the constitution of Sheba. A new dispensation. David Kalya was over the moon. He had every reason to smile and all the days of his life to live for. For the first time he felt worthy of Rose's love.

It was unanimously agreed at the meeting that Rose was to supervise the activities of the emissaries as they operated in synergies between Sheba and Gilboa. It had to be a highly secretive networking whose aim was to spy the situation on the ground, collect information and use all means to implore President Makonde and his men to consent to the project. It was imperative to cash-in on every sympathizer of the cause. All progress had to be reported to Rose, who would in turn report to President David Kalya. Rose took up the job by merit since she had an eye for detail. When the coast became clear, the project would commence in earnest. An earth - shattering deal!

Valentine's Day fell on a Sunday. David and Rose celebrated their love by hosting a party at Date's World Hotel. David had suggested Voyage Hotel but Rose had objected citing its soiled image. Diana and Kogi did theirs at home being a married couple. They reminisced over the previous Valentine's Day they celebrated at Diana's office. "The day had fallen on a working day,?? Diana recollected. ??But today it favors those who would otherwise be in trouble to satisfy prying eyes in the office. The sideshows it generated are still memorable. I was elated when I saw you arrive with stems of red roses that looked like they had been freshly yanked off a path hedge along the way."

On this day of love Diana was busy kneading and frying dough while Kogi was preparing pureed salad. "My baby is beginning to show. So I'm careful how I sit, work and walk all the time,?? Diana said, patting her belly softly. "There was a couple dating at my workplace recently. Older women in the office who had been through all that sneered at the unfolding events and sympathized with their younger female colleague. I overheard one saying, ?If only she knew of the pregnancy and broken heart that came when the roses withered.? Office romances are still treated with disdain and contempt in Sheba."

"But we are better off than some council workers in England. Executives at Lancaster city drafted a 'lover's charter' demanding that all their staff should inform their bosses if they have serious relationships at the workplace," Kogi remarked, handling utensils and cutlery clumsily in a man's manner.

"Relationship research has shown that of all the places where people meet future spouses such as schools, churches, parties, weddings and others, the workplace is the most ideal one," Diana said as she sprang to her feet in a controlled agility, and dashed to the corner of the sitting room to play one of Women of Faith's albums on the DVD that comprised their home theatre.

CHAPTER FOURTEEN

Bishop Gamaliel was back in the country again, this time to denounce publicly the mysterious murder of Maj-Gen Ben Tele. The circus revolved around a subtle woman called Eve. It was found out that she could not effectively articulate herself in police custody since she was high on cocaine. Rose was terribly upset and irritated on hearing people alleging that she was complicit in the crime. The tribesmen of the deceased were always up in arms against the government's laxity in bringing about justice.

Therefore as Bishop Gamaliel spoke on radio one afternoon, Rose was utterly offended when she heard the visiting so- called conscience keeper of the nation tag her name to the heinous, hideous act. She was alone in the house. She raved mad and behaved like a deranged woman, she threw about utensils, threw tantrums at an invisible being, and cried like a wronged teenage girl. Swearing to strip herself naked if that continued, she dragged herself to lie on her bed where she lay with a frown on her face. Immediately, she plunged into a nightmare which critically injured her already wounded soul. She woke up an hour later sweating profusely and wondering whether the world had came to an end. It was a horrible world. She had nothing to look forward to, nor the confidence to meet people without having to feel inferior in some way. In that state of mind, sometimes the image of her fianc? appeared to her in a misty haze, at times the haze kept changing colors ominously in a dreary, doubtful way making her sickly and ache with uncertainties. Hardly a day went by without her facing woes.

She was still alone in the house. (Nowadays Lavender seldom came home having secured herself an employment). Then, swelling with excitement, perhaps foreboding at what the day ahead held for her with the planned visit by Diana, she instinctively sought refuge in the known and familiar sights of the room. And there was the sound of the door bell ringing; she rushed to open it and there Diana was! They warmly embraced each other by the door. Rose was herself again, smiling from ear to ear.

Minutes later as they kept musing about the funny side of life, Diana pulled out something from her little pet bag she always carried under her shoulder. "Receive your present, Rose!" Diana enthused as she handed over something wrapped in a glittering material. "Please open it now." It was a novel titled: 'Betrayal of a Patriot'.

"Marvelous!" Rose beamed. "The author is Diana Njeri Kogi. I can't believe my eyes! You are the author?"

"Yes, I wrote this novel," Diana replied confidently.

"I am an avid reader of novels. Could you please tell me more about it before I get down to reading it?" Rose entreated.

??Well, well it was a struggle to get it published. First of all, I wrote it during my most difficult times while I was in college. I had broken out of a relationship that had given me a lot of stress, fatigue and dishonor. The truth was that I had hooked myself to the wrong boyfriend after succumbing to peer pressure. Not only that, I had a rough time struggling with college fees owing to great privation at home. A story developed in my mind and I found myself putting on paper the first paragraph of 'Betrayal of a Patriot', a story with social and political undertones," Diana said.

"Had you considered yourself a writer before?"

"I had always known I would make a good writer when I was in High school after having read Charles Dickens' 'David Copperfield' and William Shakespeare's "The Merchant of Venice.' However, I couldn't bring myself to work on the craft then. It was not until I encountered these traumatizing moments that I ultimately decided to give it a shot. Having some foundation for believing that nature and nurture had made me a writer, I contemplated according it a professional treat," Diana expounded. She went on to recount how she was frustrated on receiving a rejection slip form the first publisher with the grave words. "Sorry, we cannot publish your book given the present circumstances in the land."

"What was the reason behind the rejection?" Rose inquired. Diana asserted that the publisher was cautious about the truth in her story that was too bare for human consumption, that it had rather be clothed in something less conspicuous. But what really disappointed her was noticing the returned manuscript with coffee-mug stains all over the front page that necessitated a retyping of the title. She did so and submitted it to another publisher who fortunately accepted it for publication. "Into this book I poured my love for the poor and the downtrodden, depicting so movingly the social injustices of our time. It's an effort to have the conscience of this nation stirred to reform," Diana pointed out reflectively.

"Your book has reminded me of long ago when my parents had just died in a plane crash. We took time to fully come to terms with our new condition of being rendered orphans. We became like sheep with no shepherd and no pasture. We sunk into a state of despondency as we considered dreadfully what the future portended for us. These circumstances pressing upon our young souls induced us to make an appeal for aid. A neighbor of ours who was touched by our remonstrance contacted our uncle, Bill Too, who after a rather delicate hesitation came to our rescue. He turned out to be the

principal magnate of our family." Rose said thoughtfully.

* * *

When Madame Pauline was serving breakfast at the palace a few months after being taken to hospital in haste, His Excellency made an effort to ask her some very personal questions for the first time. Hardly had he asked her a few pertinent questions regarding her predicaments when he realized how futile his efforts were. She was in dilemma between a disposition to reveal something and a counter-disposition to reveal nothing "Who do you wish to confide to? Might you find someone who can understand you?" he asked with much concern.

?Perhaps Rose, the opposition leader. I admire her. She's a loving and wise person?? Came her wary, delicate answer.

"Then make arrangements to be meeting her. She'll help you. In this life no one can claim to live without the support of another. You need someone to lift you up when you fall. We are social beings on the face of the earth. I understand how you feel,? His Excellency broke off his counsel as Judas Kimuma stormed into the palace to announce what he termed 'special information'. "Cousin, I've been called by special delegates all the way from Israel. They say speed up gold mining. They can't wait any longer than expectant mother. You be the greatest man!" He declared, grinning from ear to ear. The next minute he had disappeared into thin air.

The country was in anticipation of economic growth to take effect. The president had promised that the gold project was expected to stimulate the country's economy once it got underway. But the project seemed to stall. It was three months since the approval of the Gold Bill by parliament which he hugely supported through and through. Joblessness among Sheba's youth was rampant and a harsh famine was always lurking treacherously following failed rains the previous years. Critics argued that President David Kalya's Gold Bill phenomenon was propaganda. Once when he implemented a salary increase for teachers in public schools, cynics opined it was in bad faith; it was his attempt to gain reputation from one sector while another one which was ailing was accorded a cover-up. The most acrimonious accusations pessimists leveled against him were that his intention to marry Rose was aimed at pacifying the opposition, blindfold the citizens and selfishly make the nation his own asset. David Kalya had never felt so contemptible in his life.

One day after he had delivered an address to the nation live on television, he called Mr. Dick to the palace, the MP whom he deemed candid, down- to- earth and truthful. "What's the situation on the ground like?" His Excellency asked.

"Don't you ever be deluded to believe that this project will be without obstacles. If you put your mind to it, they're indeed designed by God to stretch your potential. Paul Harvey said: ?you can always tell when you are on the road to success; it's uphill all the way'. The truth cannot be overemphasized," Mr. Dick replied.

"But Sir, I always feel that I am at a level beyond which it's hard to rise. I can see that my future is walled up before me. I'm not making any progress. It's as if I'm hitting my head up against the wall. What's all this?" David Kalya said dejectedly and slumped back in his seat in resignation. "Your Excellency, I understand how you feel. You have to put in a rigorous burst of effort to penetrate those strata that try to bar you from becoming what God intended you to become,'' Mr. Dick Mburu advised.

"But how? I've already done much but of no avail." The president gasped sorrowfully. His feet sprawled disconsolately.

"There are two ways, Mr. President. One way is you changing the problem. Try your best to make the difficulty more manageable, though the solution might be ephemeral but all the same, better than nothing. The second way which is the most judicious one is for you to change the spirit within you. I believe that adversity is not our greatest foe. It has been proven that the human spirit is capable of high resilience and resourcefulness in the midst of hardship," The MP expounded tactfully.

"I'm getting the point. It's raising my spirits," David Kalya said. Exhilarated by the president's response to his nuggets of wisdom, Mr. Dick went on "I concur with what someone once philosophized. He said: 'cripple a man and you have Sir Walter Scott. Bury him in the snows of Valley Forge and you have George Washington. Raise him in poverty and you have Abraham

Lincoln. Strike him down with infantile paralysis........... and you have Franklin Roosevelt. Deafen

him and he will become Ludwig Beethoven. Contemptuously treat him as a slow learner and he becomes Albert Einstein.' You see, Your Excellency, it's not problems that mess us up. We are supposed to have a positive attitude. Then we'll be able to rise above our status quo. If a hen stands on a man's head she sees further than the man."

CHAPTER FIFTEEN

What began as a tranquil and ingenious master plan in the heart of Gilboa transformed itself overnight into a disastrous circus. A senior officer in the government had got wind of the seemingly mischievous scheme and in the words of Caleb the paramount emissary, 'blown the deal out of proportions', occasioning a state of emergency situation in Radad the capital of Gilboa. There was an air of tension in the city.

Caleb, who had gone into hiding, briefed Rose, panting on the phone on the queer, disheartening development at midnight. "How in the world could this occur?" the frightened lady asked, turning on her bed.

"A certain senior officer in the administration got wind of our plan. We had earlier been warned of him. But somehow someone leaked the secret to him. The officer in turn relayed the seemingly furtive and surreptitious message to the supreme leader of the land whose reaction was nothing to be faced. He asserted that gold is such an invaluable asset to the people of Gilboa that they can't afford to watch it being confiscated from them lying down. The police were given a free rein and they swung into action. We were branded spies. The entire city was put on alert as the policemen ransacked every nook and cranny. Right now I'm at large. I can't fathom where my juniors are at the moment. It's so devastating! "Caleb interjected at last.

??Are they safe? Oh my!" She was crying.

"That's the pertinent question, Madame," came Caleb's succinct response. "A flurry of shots rang out in the darkness."

The following morning, Rose convened and chaired a parliamentary caucus meeting. Its sole purpose was to deliberate on the Gilboa menace and the entangled emissaries. It was prudent for the legislators to come up with an urgent solution seeing as this was hurting diplomacy between Sheba and Gilboa. It would most likely burn the always delicate bridges held between both nations. It was very probable that this would slow down or even destroy her fianc?s mission in life, Rose observed. She secretly sympathized with him.

She was deeply preoccupied with this saddening issue as she sat there in front of her juniors inside Nasa Conference Centre. She had ensured that the affairs of the meeting were not disseminated in the media for the situation of the nation was highly polarized over the safety of their fellow countrymen in Gilboa.

When a man sheds tears, he has lost it all. That was the condition of David Kalya when he received the report. A lonely man, a symbol of political integrity, he was driven by his dream of a peaceful and wealthy Africa. And this dream no longer seemed capable of actualization. The

consternation was too much for him.

* * *

"It seems as if I am taking three giant steps backwards,?? Mr. Kuto told Diana at her house. "Instead of soaring for the stars I'm perilously nose-diving into the ocean depths. My venture into shares has rendered me bankrupt when it failed to pay us dividends after the IPO. It need hardly be said that this catastrophe has resulted in a breach of confidence between my wife and me."

"Sorry, my dear neighbor. Go easy and relax," Diana said, folding her arms across her perfect bust. She faced him intently and compassionately.

"We are standing on sinking sand. I'm stupid and shall remain green all the days of my life!" Mr. Kuto regretted, holding his head with both hands. "Will I ever be so successful? Is prosperity only for a select few? I have so faithfully expended my skills and reservoir of innovative ideas yet they have never paid off!"

"Never, never give up. Try and fail but not fail to try. Someday you'll be delighted to find a place where you will not only enjoy a lucrative, lofty pay but also find enthusiasm in exploiting your abilities."

"Diana, that's your ideal world. That's a matter for conjecture." At that instant Bellringer arrived in the house in his usual cheeky demeanor. "My newspaper here tell me," he quipped, holding aloft his dog-eared newspaper, "that the government of President David has raised salaries of Nasa Stock Exchange personnel. I am inside of them."

"You Bellringer!" Mr. Kuto burst out loudly such that the addressee jumped with a start. "We have no business knowing about your silly escapades! Some of us are desperately in need of financial aid."

"How dare you talk to your master like that?" Judas snarled back at the top of his voice, pointing menacingly an accusing finger at Mr. Kuto.

"It's because of your being my so-called master that I'm suffering. You've fleeced me of all my finances in all your malice and wickedness." Mr. Kuto yelled threateningly, now rising to his feet unconsciously. Diana watched this weird conversation breathlessly as it developed. The animated war of words oscillated between one extreme and another. She too had risen to her feet.

"How dare you insult me now! You signed along the dotted line. Didn't you? You showed off a great merchant and so I lend you the monies." Judas hissed through clenched teeth, with arms akimbo.

"I came to discover that you forged my signatures all so that you could increase interest haphazardly. You also practice usury. When I couldn't repay the interest you threatened me with death. I had no otherwise but to give up every possession so as to save my dear life." After saying this, Mr. Kuto walked out into the night. Half a minute later, Judas who had been stricken by this verbal assault, dragged himself out of the house, visibly embarrassed. Diana watched

breathlessly. Her husband was not yet back home that hour.

*****

David Kalya and Rose Akinyi finally got married in a fabulous wedding. David had swelled with intense joy. He was drawn to his young wife by the aspiration of his soul and mind. He savored her nobility, love, and intelligence. The mere thought of having a wonderful collaboration with her of a lifetime was overpowering. He shed tears of joy. It was surprising that a politician of genius should have waited patiently for this man. On the other hand, it was indeed wonderful that Rose, considering all her failings, should have made a perfect match for a president of international repute. In the fervor of the moment, they forgot all their lives' cares casting them to the four winds and choosing to concentrate on one another. Now that they were united, they were to make an excellent thing out of their marriage. David had finally got a destiny helper.

During these fine days was established one of the mightiest bonds that ever united man and woman. They frankly discussed their ambitions, promising to fulfill them no matter the cost. Congratulatory messages were still pouring in from around the world after their publicized wedding. Men and women of renown were applauding them for what they termed "a meeting of great minds". They both went through these messages with heightened gusto especially when they recognized familiar names from such and such part of the globe. It was impressed upon their fertile hearts that they could reach for the stars and above all, focus on meeting the needs of the people not as leaders but as fellow human beings. Knowledge without use is like a fertile farm without crops; the possession is of no benefit to anyone. That was the view that these noble spouses had of the glorious pragmatic use of knowledge. They came round to noting that the best attitude to life people cherished in others was: the disdain for gain, devotion to an intellectual passion, and the willingness to serve.

The pressure of their duties to the nation not offering them much breather, they went honeymooning in the countryside for a day and half. They rode bicycles among the woods, passing through a labyrinth of paths. For David it was reminiscent of his childhood days in the village, for Rose it was a sprightly unique sport in the making. They rode, panted and chanted songs among the big woods only resting to either eat or drink.

It was a time when they discovered each others treasures, interests, strengths and vulnerable points. They cemented their bond. They were to remember these activities for the rest of their lives. 'Marriage is like the 'Kibugandet' (harp); when the music is over you still have the strings'. That was the inscription on the wall inside the cathedral on their wedding day. They perused an article titled: Rules for a Happy Marriage. Part of it read,

Never both be angry at once,

Never bring a mistake of the past

Compliment each other on a daily basis

When you are wrong ask for forgiveness

Neglect the world and not each other.

And so it came to pass that the Gilboa menace was contained - thanks to the diplomatic relation brokered by the parliamentary caucus. The emissaries at last had their precious commodity restored - freedom. Caleb was dying to relate more on this to Rose back in Sheba, to which smiling endearingly; she would incline her face to affirm him, displaying a picture of a vivacious, intelligent lady.

CHAPTER SIXTEEN

Her feelings having settled down in marriage, Rose was ultimately decided about supporting her husband's vision. So convinced was she now about its tangible results in changing people's lives that she felt that she was obligated to give it her best. She recollected from history how Marie Curie and her husband Pierre Curie, the discoverers of Radium, devoted their lives to scientific work that was later to be of great help to humanity -the treatment of cancer through radioactivity. She knew that oil was a very precious and vital substance in people's lives across the world. And therefore when Israel took over in future the dominion of the Middle East Convention having Veto Powers, it would succeed in bringing down the oil prices exported from that region and its environs to the rest of the world. The aftermath - reduced poverty in developing countries of Africa- would be incredible.

She day by day kept motivating her husband that the matter was going to materialize in the fullness of time. She had transformed since getting married into a woman of influence. No more was she a woman to be taken for granted. The rebels had receded in equality as to challenge her authority and conceded defeat. 'This is our vision; it's as much ours as for posterity' was her official slogan. Her husband watched her keenly as things developed and was elated. She was no longer "the angry woman" reporters had branded her many times before.

* * * *

Diana had just delivered a baby girl. As she rested in bed comfortably, nursing the infant at her breast, the maid of all work busied herself in the kitchen. She was preparing for the arrival of some visitors at lunchtime. At times since her arrival at the house, the nineteen-year old girl would yearn for her master's and mistress' opinion after serving some excellent delicacies. "Please comment on the steak. How it?" she asked Kogi one supper time.

"It's a wonderful delicacy, my dear," Kogi had replied, looking as though he had been jolted out of his reverie-while eating!

The visitors arrived. The front door bell rang and the maid rushed to usher them into the house. They were Mr. and Mrs. David Kalya. The situation could not be better for Diana the host. Such overtures to her house often catapulted her self- esteem. She did final touches to her facial make- up for the umpteenth time since waking up from the bed and went to meet her visitors in the sitting room. She saluted them honorably, speaking Queen's English apt for the occasion. "How's the little princess?" Rose queried cheerfully.

"She's fine. She's putting on weight gradually. Now your assignment!" Diana beamed, looking at Rose who laughed with her husband hysterically.

"In the past this duty was left to old women who were venerable sages in the society," His Excellency said hilariously. "But child -naming in those days would invariably conform to the times or season of the child's birth. Maybe at dusk, night, dawn, and such ? like,?? Rose opined.

"It's true. Most of our middle names allude to times or seasons. It follows that if you were born in a rainy season, your name would refer to the season,?? Diana said, "but nowadays we should be nonconformists."

"Okay the key word is non-conformist. Diana, I hope the name I've researched will not be rebutted by either you or your husband," Rose said.

"By no means! I'll even call him right away to announce it to him while he's out of the country," Diana protested, throwing up her arms like a child.

"Alright," Rose said, feigning seriousness, "I hereby name her Portia!" Laughter rent the air for quite a while as Diana clapped hands with her guests with vigor.

"If you are a good student of European history," His Excellency said, changing the subject, "you might have come across the part when it was considered cruel fate to be a Pole. You would be a Russian subject, as it were. But Poland refused to die, there were new heroes who were intellectuals in their own right, replacing the Polish warriors who had triumphed in slaying the Cossacks with scythes and clubs."

"And what did the intellectuals contribute to the wellbeing of their nation?" Diana asked with a quizzical look on her face. "Poor artists! Poor teachers! They took the place of the hypocrites and became complacent about progress. It transpired that they were bent on coping with any humiliation by the Russian authorities rather than lose their positions!" The president spat out as though a bitter substance had literally entered his system.

"What became of the young children?" Rose asked, running her palm smoothly over an immaculate French Twist.

"Since the directors of most schools were Russians, they never permitted the teaching of history of Poland to the children. However, the Poles devised a plan. They could secretly teach the history lesson in Polish language. Polish books were never to be found on the pupils' desks. They would be hidden in aprons and sweaters as directors made impromptu visits to the classrooms," explained the president.

"What a pity!" Diana interjected, ??But I love children!"

"Of particular poignancy was when the directors forced the children to study the politics of the Russian tsars."

The maid came to serve lunch at the table. "First of all let me make this announcement: ?its self- service!? ?The girl issued the instructions coyly yet eloquently and retreated to the kitchen from where she would resurface only a long while later to gather the used utensils. They ate, chatted, and laughed. It was a celebration of the arrival of a new-born baby. The exercise halted with heavy sighs of satisfaction.

Just at that moment when the guests were treated to an interesting American documentary film, Judas Kimuma turned up unexpectedly at the door. "I salute you all in the name of democracy!" He squeaked, and then matched to shake hands round the table bowing in a clumsy, wicked manner. As the maid brought the bundle of joy to her mother, Judas broke into song and dance:

What child of a lady

Being a bouncing baby

Breaking the silence heavy

Shook the village like crazy?

"Were you ever a poet?" David Kalya asked him.

"Yes, when I was in primary school. I learn poetry when I knew about that politician of old called err, err, Shakespeare."

"Was Shakespeare really a politician?" David Kalya asked.

"Yes, he was. And I think he was powerful as well,?? Judas replied.

"Judas, Shakespeare was never a politician! He was a playwright. Get it right!" Diana ejaculated with irritation.

"Leave him alone, Diana," Rose said, looking reproachfully at this uninvited creature. Throwing all caution to the four winds, Bellringer rambled on regardless as he sat and fidgeted in the couch. "When I was in Standard Five I study great history: Tribal kingdoms and their prominent leaders, Initiation rites, original religion e.t. c."

"Oh! That you consider great history. I'd rather the Fall of the Roman Empire, the Ptolemy, and others," Diana said with disgust.

At this juncture, David Kalya who looked weary by now requested Diana to excuse him and his wife to leave, citing other commitments to attend to elsewhere. They delivered their valedictory remarks and kissed the baby in turns. As her parting shot Rose charged Diana with the task of naming her child as and when she delivered hers as a requited service. All went out laughing including Judas.

CHAPTER SEVENTEEN.

It was either a make or break situation. There had been a tug-of-war between Sheba and Gilboa over the border under which Gold ores lay. This morning the two nations' diplomats and delegates were set to negotiate and strike a deal. President Makonde had claimed that the boundary line was defective and that it needed a proper marking-off to ensure that their nation?s resources were not going to be taken unequally by Sheba upon mining. Thus it had sparked a heated debate that grabbed news headlines internationally. The infamous phenomenon was called: 'The Luanda Controversy" since that small part of the border was called Luanda. Some respondents even ventured into calling President Makonde King Ahab in the previous incarnation. The trick accompanying the forthcoming exercise was that the inhabitants of Luanda had to be evicted. "Where shall we go?" This was the million-dollar question with which all the parties involved had to contend. The thorny issues made President David Kalya and the first lady quite uncomfortable as they rose from their bed. This morning they made supplications to God about the imminent negotiation before leaving the house.

The negotiation dragged on. Firstly, both sides were required to present reports, but then again there were discrepancies here and there. The chair had a rough time compiling and harmonizing the reports. Then the debate kicked off. Voices could reach tumultuous levels. The chairman, like the Speaker of the National Assembly could only bang his desk begging for order in the house. There were contentious issues which needed to be ironed out. It was difficult to effect a compromise.

The session ended unceremoniously without both sides reaching a point of consensus. It was going to take time before such a meeting was to convene again. Participants walked away with wounded hearts. Some swore never to attend again. Others needed time to cool off and rethink their arguments that ascertained their standpoints. While others needed more consultations, others who were not repentant were inclined to carry the day come the next convention with their 'no-no' stance. Many commentators observed that the general mood of the negotiation was healthy though it was marred by many irregularities.

Undoubtedly the best explanation for Rose coming up so powerfully and with sagacity besides being entwined with her husband's destiny was to prove herself as a woman of substance. She aspired to be a woman of influence. When she called to mind her childhood travails, she was quickened and spurred for transformational leadership. Her spirit had undergone metamorphosis from a feeble, flinch jelly fish to a daring whale. She looked forward to showing the world what it took to be a genius and yet remain to be modest. Yet at the back of her mind the focus was still clear: to support Israel reduce oil prices in the Africa and consequently the reduction of atrocities and poverty.

*****

Mr. and Mrs. Kuto's difficulties had at last come to a crisis. All Mr. Kuto's supermarket premises were set to be auctioned by his bankers the following day due to his failure to repay hefty loans tagged to his name. Kogi and Diana watched their neighbors shedding tears that evening. Their children, Amos and Doreen had caught the infection and they too broke down in tears. Diana, moved by the sight, drew closer to Mrs. Kuto and consoled her. Kogi comforted Mr. Kuto. It unfolded that the Prado Mr. Kuto had bought a few months ago would not escape the auctioneer's whip. This was his idol. Mrs. Kuto worried about their children's education now that their source of livelihood was gone. She despaired, she moaned. Her husband complained that a shylock, notably Bellringer, had oppressed and extorted him. Just the mere mention of him was enough to nauseate him and dampen his spirits. What a vexatious vicissitude! The fact that the auction had been widely advertised in the papers opened doors for his vilification in the public arena. The supermarket premises which had since closed shop including the luxury car were the family's remaining assets. They feared that the banker's next target was their house. It was a luxury house, yes, but that was a basic need. Children studied at expensive schools, but that was an obligation on the part of the parents. Further compounding the problem was that neither of them had alternative jobs at hand. They had to live by faith.

A few days later, Diana decided to bring her neighbors' problem to Rose's attention. Rose offered to help. She could lend a considerable amount of money to them to live on as they sought alternative sources of income as Rose advised. Diana was happy. Her neighbors were very grateful when they received the miraculous aid. "Man must live!" was a maxim Mr. Jack Kuto chanted alongside his lexicon of philosophies of life. No amount of catastrophe could kill his propensity to be joyful in life. His melancholic wife often nagged him at bed time. He always felt that all he needed was a sound sleep and leave tomorrow to worry about itself.

He had desired to take up a Public Relations career so as to employ his proficiency in spoken and written English. But his initial dream was derailed when he tried his hand in business and got a meteoric rise. Perhaps it was a fluke, he told himself. He recalled a day when he was invited to address a meeting of leading businessmen in Nasa. In those days, his business was robust and so was his reputation. He was called a phrase monger as his audiences were thrilled by his superb language competence. Newspaper reporters confessed they had never met such an accomplished orator either in business circles or on the political scenes. He was the darling of Nasa city. In his clique of businessmen he was well- known for writing them letters even when he could easily phone them. His demeanor endeared him to many people. He was considered a

man of the people.

*****

Another parliamentary caucus meeting was convened and chaired by Rose, the First Lady. They deliberated on the relocation of the inhabitants of Luanda on the side of Sheba. Gilboa was to resettle her own people. The downside to this event was the disturbance of social life of the people for they belonged to one ethnic community. The meeting was characterized by finger pointing as was usually the case with such important high- powered meetings. Radical MPs ferociously voiced their concerns; conservative ones kept a slow pace; and the cynical ones were either on the defensive or offensive whichever way they took the issues at hand. It was inconceivable that any faction of legislators could bring any reeling accusation against the first lady of attempting to usurp the powers of the president; it was unbelievable that a sensible politician could accuse her of leading the country as the president's proxy. So infuriated by these implausible accusations Rose was that she dismissed the meeting unceremoniously in her idiosyncrasy. The semiconscious woman was led by her security detail into the car. She sensed all along that her adversaries who were intending to frustrate her efforts at gold project were using kickbacks to advance their interests. She could imagine that her foes had the organization and the capability for clandestine schemes to thwart her and her husband's efforts. Fortunately, they could not destroy her and her husband's will to win.

CHAPTER EIGHTEEN

Another surpassing and benevolent cohort was doing its operations and relaying synergies across the border of Gilboa to their colleagues in Sheba. These were the emissaries. They were led by Caleb, using a facade that was virtually perfect to conceal their operations. A contingent of this group had already infiltrated the helm and hub of the Gilboa government. This plot was devised to bring President Makonde and his government to consent to gold mining at the boundary without more ado. It was necessary to take cognizance of the fact that both countries, like two sleeping lions, were antagonistic since time immemorial. Any slight provocation would trigger an all out- war. Further compounding the problem was that President Makonde was a highly volatile personality. He could never be slighted without the attacker getting wounded in the process. Therefore, the emissaries' task was to lobby with great patience for delegates from that side to go for talks with those of Sheba as and when due. In his messages to Rose, Caleb the paramount emissary stated thus:

"The prerogative of President Makonde's administration to grant or object to the gold mining deal at the border is highly esteemed, but if their rebuttal of the plan springs from bad blood and hazard the lives of millions of people on this continent, cannot be acknowledged or appreciated. Such authority and motivation is deemed to be wholly contravening both the principles which the Regional Charter provides and the benefits which it is explicitly expressed to obtain."

Bishop Gamaliel was in town. He jetted into the country in the wake of simmering anger over the First Family's seemingly orchestrated wrangles in handling the gold issue. Rose who had since given up her position of an MP and leader of official opposition was now the nations' first lady, a woman with royal blood running in her veins. Her stunning beauty and sophisticated look seemed, not in reality but in illusion, to have moved a notch higher. For people's psychology is influenced by circumstances. So Bishop Gamaliel, speaking first on electronic media before going to the palace, spread his sentiments that he was deeply outraged at the wrangles whose epicenter was the first lady. He expressed concerns that the ripples, all of Rose's causation, were destabilizing situations both locally and internationally. No words could describe the agony of the soul Rose had as the personage chatted amicably with her husband at the palace. She resented this so-called conscience keeper of the nation. Why is his own country's reputation in tatters? She remembered the scriptures where Jesus during his sermon on the mount said: "Why do you look at the speck in your brother's eye but do not consider the plank in your own eye?" She began to muse about a university course called 'Speckology' defined as the identifying and criticizing of trivial shortcomings in the lives of others. Also a medical condition in hospital journals called 'Plankitis' explained as a disease that distorts self- perception and renders an individual incapable of recognizing personal weaknesses.

* * * *

"I think Bellringer is the president's stooge," Kogi said, sitting in a couch in their home with Diana. "Of late his actions have been very questionable."

"It's even worse than that. The reverse is true. Aren't you aware that David Kalya does Kimuma's bidding?" Diana asserted, shaking her head solemnly.

"What will become of Rose also? I hear -" Kogi was cut short by his wife.

"No I have full confidence in Rose. She's a woman of integrity. I can add that she's my alter ego" Diana said.

"I strongly feel that this country should redefine her value system," Kogi said, changing the subject. "In many popular governments around the world, where the government allows its subjects to enjoy certain inalienable rights there are active freedoms of speech, press and associations. Citizens enjoy nationalism that is at an all - time high and patriots are as happy as kings. There's no task too hard for them to accomplish, no deception too base for them to unearth, no injustice too excruciating to undo, all in the name of patriotism.^??

"Sheba will soon fly in the league of such nations," Diana said.

"A successful example is the United States," Kogi gave, avoiding her remark.

"Mr. and Mrs. Kuto are faring well since that fateful day," Diana said, changing the subject. "They'd rather be a bit more resourceful than rely on handouts," Kogi replied defiantly. "Success is like fighting with a tiger. You don't quit when you are tired, you quit when the tiger is tired."

The man and wife went on arguing as they watched television soap. Recently each one of them had silently felt the other one opposing his or her views on a subject. They irritated each other silently and with subtlety. Each considered oneself as of ?Highbrow class' and so it was not surprising to find them arguing and reasoning, moving from one subject to another for hours on end without reaching a consensus. Indeed nobody could dispute the fact that both of them were intellectuals: Diana had published a highly celebrated novel; Kogi participated in major BBC radio forums. Suffice to say that most of their peers looked up to them for advice on many issues varying across the board such as intellectual, social, or marital aspects. They were the mantle of the society in so far as role modeling was concerned.

Kogi was a posthumous child. His father had died four months when his eyes opened on the light of this world. He grew up and lived always in intimacy with his poverty-stricken mother. For many years, they lived in abject poverty. It was during those sluggish days that Kogi's life was molded - perseverance brought character which in turn brought hope. Ultimately he grew to exemplify the potency of a formidable, uncompromising Christian lifestyle. Diana grew up in a well -to -do family that knew no lack. In her parents' munificence, she enjoyed a variety of toys, ate plenty and dressed elegantly. She studied at prestigious schools with children from equally wealthy families. It was only when she was nearing the end of her high school studies when the family experienced a huge financial need. Her parents who were Christians were very strict on her as she grew up especially in teenage years. So suffocating her parents' surveillance was that she envisaged an escape route from that establishment. That was a blessing in disguise for her personality and character were nurtured. The discipline instilled in her had taken root and was to bear fruit in future. Her marriage was thus destined to be colorful.

* * *

Rose watched the electric coil turning red gradually. It was beginning to emit heat to the surrounding air and she was gradually feeling the warmth. It was at half past nine at night. Lights seemed unusually dim. She felt a little lonely as her husband had flown overseas on an official

business and would be back the following day. The coil became more and more red hot. It was
reminiscent of the fiery furnace that king Nebuchadnezzar made for Shadrack, Meshack and
Abednego. She shuddered. Slowly she put out her finger and attempted to touch it. Just to feel it.
She withdrew it quickly in a reflex action. She reckoned that it was not at all appropriate courting
fire especially at a time when tens of people of Sheba had been burnt to death when a fuel tanker
had overturned on the highway and caught fire. The people had rushed to obtain the precious
commodity using jerry cans so that they could sell it to motorists. For them it was a boon

particularly since the fuel tanker on transit to a neighboring country overturned during a serious
hunger strike in that part of the country. Incidentally, one of the drivers had lit a cigarette which
caused the inferno. Dermatologists observed that the survivors of the tragedy would have serious
skin complications even after treatment. How sad. Her phone rang. She received it. "Hallo,
Caleb."

"First lady" there was a momentary silence.

"How's Gilboa? I hope it's at peace."

"Oh yes. We're in a peaceful coexistence ex-ex-cept that-" he hesitated and stammered a little. He told Rose that there were still smoldering embers of aggression in that part of the world since the day when the initial broaching of gold mining had sparked upheavals. Caleb was however hasty to reassure her that they would obtain a breakthrough sooner than later.

When the conversation ended, she was left by herself again. Tonight she felt she had
something to tell the people. The parliamentary caucus. And she could feel a mystery gradually
enveloping her whole being. The obscure feeling engulfing her whole being. In her loneliness,
she wrestled with questions that she had often led herself to believe were rhetorical,
unformulated, mind- boggling life questions. No one could ever understand her. She was
melancholic. It would have been better if her husband had been around to console her in this
state of sorrow. Jesus was deserted by his disciples in the Garden of Gethsemane depriving him
of dear camaraderie. How painful and agonizing it must have been to him. "My soul is
overwhelmed with sorrow to the point death............. ," he had said.

CHAPTER NINETEEN

Both governments of Sheba and Gilboa had finally resettled the evictees. Yet another impediment still remained: a demarcation of the boundary so that there was equitable ownership of gold deposits underneath Luanda. An expensive exercise. Rose, her husband and every other Sheba nationalist was conversant with how volatile President Makonde and his people were if provoked. Aggressions would definitely sever both diplomatic and economic relations held between both nations. The international community watched and warned several times, directing most such warnings to Sheba, deemed an enlightened nation within the region. Every step Rose or the president or the parliament took was carefully scrutinized and criticized against a backdrop of -memories of casual acts that precipitated atrocities in the past. Such errors had to be checked at all costs, the people echoed. Caleb and his team were doing a tremendous job behind the scenes and kept Rose posted on any new developments who would in turn direct the parliamentary caucus on any new action plan. It turned out to be an interesting circuit of information, power and action. Rose and David were very proud of this synergy; it inspired their hopes to greater heights. They were soon going to see a peaceful, united world with fairness and equality - thanks to the strategy Israel had lain down. They were so elated by these imaginings that they momentarily forgot their present hardships. They were being driven by a higher calling.

One morning, they awoke to the news that a high powered delegation from Israel had just arrived in the country, Rose and David were fascinated by the team's arrival especially since the only thing remaining before gold mining commenced was to demarcate the border at Luanda. Yet Rose was rather discomfited. There was something sinister about what Judas told the delegates on phone that morning. He had told them that no gold would be exported to Israel, she learnt. He had purported to speak with an air of power and authority. If the delegates had believed him then the entire project would be aborted after all. For Judas had purported to have been patented to control the project and had plenary powers to sell it to any buyer. Then the vision would be as good as dead. This intensified her fears. Too wearied to move, she called her husband from his office in the palace while she was in the kitchen. The president, having heard a tremor in her voice, hurried up to her. She explained to him all that she had heard. Her husband was quite perplexed but remained tight-lipped. He struggled to allay and conceal his anxiety particularly since that trouble came from his bosom friend. Ashes fly back into the face of he who throws them. It was painfully hard. He could neither scorn his friend nor his wife given the circumstances. He despaired in his heart, but secretly. Nobody could ever decipher that he was seething inside, crying to be understood. By whom? He could not tell. He dragged his feet, controlling his feelings within so as to appear nonchalant, leaving his wife worse than he found her. The sight of the sinking Titanic!

When she had sufficiently overcome her trauma, the first lady aimlessly went through her emails. Barely had she spent a minute before an excellently written message attracted her eyes. It read:

When the foundations of the human existence are

Buffeted by invincible waves

There remains only one superhuman being

On whom to depend.

The chosen ones

Run unto him and are safe.

That being

Is the Almighty God.

I am deeply and more so heavily indebted

To you for the inestimable aid I got.

That was a noble gesture by a lofty

Personage to a modest mortal like me.

May you reap remarkable

Breakthroughs in your endeavors.

Yours sincerely, son of Adam,

Mr. Jack Kuto.

What moved Rose was not just the grace and wit of the man's language but his candor. She began to feel more charitable and philanthropic. With her benevolent heart, magnanimous personality and mind-blowing aspirations, she began to feel she could be equated to Mother

Teresa. In the same token, she likened her husband to William Wilberforce.

*****

Over the past few months, Portia, Diana's sweet child had grown big. She could crawl to a few meters in the house, sometimes toppling obstacles standing on her way. She cried a lot. Her proud parents were happy to leave the noisy baby in the mornings in the able hands of the maid as they went to work. The maid, several times over had to put up with Portia's nerve-racking screams during the day. She juggled house-keeping and baby-sitting alone. So exhausted was she by the time her masters arrived in the evening that she would take a break of an hour to rest in her bedroom instead of watching the seven o'clock news. From Monday to Friday her schedule was predictable and just as monotonous and boring. The damsel in distress saw herself as having taken up a cursed occupation which she could never recommend to another girl. In the midst of tackling Portia's cries she harbored regrets and wished there would be a chasm to swallow her up. Worse even, neither Diana nor Kogi bothered to enquire about their welfare since day break on arriving. She loved and respected them but they could not accommodate her feelings. Heartache and no solace. What she deemed deliberate passive punishment meted out to her drove her into a somber mood. This would be aggravated by the monotonous debates during suppertime, addressing issues she was barely interested in or about which she had smattering knowledge. During these times, she would have to resist the tremendous urge to protest at them to give her space.

At times during the day, she would leave Portia while asleep in the house and stroll to a river close-by. She went there to cool her nerves. That was when she developed a penchant for rivers. She would stand on the river bank and admire the smooth flow of water. The dazzling water surface in the midday sun. The gentle soothing waves with a silver glimmer rippled and sparkled within the eternal confines of granite embankments punctuated by majestic draw?bridges and an awe-inspiring fall. The relaxed ambience of the river rejuvenated her energy to enable her face the rest of the day.

*****

It was now six months since the feted barricading of the border at Luanda to pave way for the mining of gold ores situated underneath. The first family was upbeat, brought to exaltation of spirits and soaring reputation by this momentous milestone in their existence. A monumental, spectacular event that would inevitably reshape the course of history of the planet at best. David and Rose sat side by side, arm in arm at times in childlike enthusiasm, in the cool of the afternoon in the orchard. They were whiling away their time as they anticipated a party in the evening that was meant to celebrate the struggles they had made so far and for the ushering in of a new era. The Israeli Prime Minister would arrive for the launching of the mining exercise and renewed socio-economic and political interests and relations. They had invited friends and associates to the party that would take place at the palace.

CHAPTER TWENTY

The sun had set. They were now in the corridors of the palace conversing in low tones as if wearied by the long hours of chatting and waiting. Or as if apprehensive, in a way, of the darkness that was setting in. At the compound of the palace there was nothing that seemed half so noble. Rose watched her husband affectionately as he stood facing away from her making phone calls. He was a real man, which to an aspiring woman was trustworthiness personified. She found herself half-consciously leaning on his breast. She smiled. "What's on your mind?" said he. "I am glad I married you," replied she, completely carried away.

The moment finally arrived. A crowd of about hundred men and women sat in the court, the palace illumined by bright lights on the walls. Mr. Kuto who was designated master of ceremony had delegated the responsibility to someone else. It was a young man, in fact a -university student Mr. Kuto fancied so much for his versatile propensity. The student who was a remarkable proponent of idealism in student leadership at the public university was a bit vexed a deliberate locking out of newsmen from the party. Did that matter to him? He was however in a dilemma perhaps since his campus had been closed indefinitely after the disputed student leadership elections. Not willing to sacrifice standards at the altar of baneful deeds, the scholars organized demonstrations on the streets of Nasa city which turned riotous. The bone of contention was politicians' unwarranted involvement in the campus elections believed to have precipitated sabotaged voting. The campaigns were alleged to have been laced with political overtones played out in the national theatrics. The university senate resorted to closing the institution until further notice.

Dozens of Europeans, Asians and Americans were already at the court. Shortly before the party kicked off, Rose informally announced that the Israeli Prime Minister would be arriving towards the end of the party and was set to deliver a speech. Naturally the PM's speech would predominantly address the commencement of the crucial mining process imminent. The student made for the stage triumphantly with the poise of a veteran actor or comedian ready to electrify his audience. First though, on the MC's announcement, the people helped themselves to huge chunks of sumptuous meal. Each and every individual ate to his or her fill, making the body and soul to be in tandem with the mood of the moment. There were high hopes and so were the stakes. Optimism permeated every realm.

Speeches followed each other in perfect flow. Then the MC introduced Mr. Jack Kuto to the stage. The two men's manner of communication - peculiar wink to one another - resolved any doubt in the public mind as to their being old friends. They both seemed ready to carry an idea into effect.

Mr. Kuto held the microphone and looked at the crowd from the podium with intensity. "There were so many obstacles that punctuated this divine journey," He began. "Sadly though, while some of them were natural others were deliberate, artificial inhibitions out of malice." He paused. There was an air of tension in the crowd. The first family looked on with gleaming, eager eyes. Lights seemed to intensify in power with time. "May God bless His Excellency for having heeded God's voice and obeyed His calling." He went on and the sound of his powerful voice was accompanied by all other high-pitched notes from the public address system, full of mystery, inspiration and awe. "And may God bless the Honorable first lady for after getting inflamed by this passion did not hesitate to carry it on to the horizon. There were hurdles galore for both of you yet you refused to back down on a point of principle. Success is one thing you can't buy. You have to buy it on the installment plan and make payments everyday "

"Very impressive!" Rose sprang to her feet shouting loudly.

"Having said that let's now focus on the adversary,?? Mr. Kuto declared. ??Though a mouse be obnoxious, he still belongs to his kindred. The true and noble way to kill a foe is not to kill him. Youwith kindness may so change him that he shall cease to be a foe and then he's slain. Nevertheless, we must squeeze pus out of a wound. Do you agree with me?"

"We do!" replied the crowd.

"Squeeze it out like a medic!" shouted the student.

"Well, we all understand that a man's source of livelihood is sacred, and as such somebody tampering with it is committing a sacrilege. He's a renegade. Once, I was an affluent, maverick proprietor of a business that flourished and gave the benefits of any such a venture. It was an equal opportunity employer to the citizens of this nation and paid tax to the government with utmost faithfulness. Regrettably, someone out of paranoia and sheer avarice ruined my financial power, hence my subsequent downward drag alongside my lovely wife and little children. Do you wish to know this person?" he asked.

"Expose him! He's a scoundrel!" yelled the crowd.

"We don't want to retaliate for vengeance belongs to the Lord. However, to kill the pungent smell you must kill the skunk. I am discoursing on none other than Judas Kimuma alias Bellringer," Mr. Kuto unveiled.

All heads turned and everybody stared at Judas who was sitting at a corner at the back of the court, half shivering, half sweating. To realize that his hour of doom had come was to lose all presence of mind and power of language. He reckoned that fate had pitted him against all humanity. "Despicable! Despicable!" Rose gasped with all emotions, gazing reprovingly at her villain. Given a chance there was nothing she could have left undone to prove that Judas was the son of perdition. "This marks the end of my tether, and a fresh start at that." His Excellency wept.

Mr. Kuto continued. "Moving farther, I wish to appreciate the integral part played by the parliamentary caucus. Although they encountered several hurdles in pushing for gold mining project they were tenacious and pertinacious until they earned victories. Each time they attained a feat I could be in the highest state of exhilaration -"

"Kudos to the parliamentary caucus!" Kogi and Diana enthused in unison.

"Back to the adversary," Mr. Kuto said vehemently. "It's appalling that for all intents and purposes, Bellringer was bent on aborting this divine mission for mankind. Fortunately, his antics hit rock bottom. You cynic! You'll have no share in this endeavor, not even in perpetuity. Time and the world are fast drifting from beneath you. You have neither posterity nor legacy in this grand project!"

"He's a traitor!" the first lady cried, standing on her feet.

"He's a mutinous lunatic and an impudent impostor!" Yelled the student, boxing the air vigorously with his clenched fists.

"Let us now focus attention on the emissaries," Mr. Kuto proceeded. Lights intensified contrasted with deepening darkness beyond the court. Bellringer spewed up all he had eaten, his visage contorting in deep pain. Nobody cared about him. "I daresay I cannot afford to forget them without recalling with a pang their modest fortitude. It goes without saying how they took in a stride all the criticisms and traps laid on their way in Gilboa. And most of all they were never slaves of procrastination. As Diana who is this country's brilliant writer would concur with me, we live in a fantasy world, in a world where dreams come true. How true!"

"Yes, we plot out extraordinary episodes which materialize!" Diana intoned merrily, her imposing face illuminated with a perfect smile.

"The first family epitomizes ideal leadership!" Mr. Kuto flung praise at the duo who marched forward arm in arm, dancing to the rhythmic beat of the music. They shook hands on the podium with Mr.Kuto happily like politicians forming a coalition.

"The university student epitomizes intellectualism!" Mr. Kuto pronounced with fervor. The student danced his way to the dais triumphantly.

"He who has done his best for his own time has outlived all his times!" Mr. Kuto declared. "The heavens belong to the Lord and the earth belongs to man. We are in charge of what God entrusted to us. We are his workmanship. He purposed from the Genesis of all things that we accomplish all things on his behalf, and then there will be no limits to the recognition of our

abilities. Do you desire God's approval?"

"Yes, we do!" The crowd replied. His Excellency was wiping his tears beside his wife who was

sobbing on the podium. The court resonated with stereo sound music which seemed to gain

momentum with every passing minute. This was a celebratory mood.

"Are you excellent stewards of God?"

"Yes, we are!"

There at the entrance, stood Israeli Prime Minister smiling from ear to ear. Behind him was the

entourage that handled his itinerary; behind this, his logistical crew; behind this, his press service

agents.

Thus Sheba was destined to be the cradle of Divine Intervention.